Healthy Exercise Guidelines for Kids

As adults, we’re all aware that exercise is good for our physical and mental health – and sports physiotherapists know that our current lifestyles are a bit too sedentary for our own good. But this applies to our children too – and in some ways, it’s even more important for them than it is for us! Here’s some insight and guidelines from strength conditioning specialists at our physio in Richmond.



Why Exercise is so Important for Children

Exercise is important at every stage of childhood development, helping to build strong, healthy lungs, muscles and bones, helping to improve learning and mental skills development and helping kids make friends.

Exercising regularly as a child also helps to build healthy habits for adult life, helping to fight diseases like heart disease, diabetes and obesity, and helping to prevent injuries that can send you to a sports physiotherapist.

Exercise is also key to mental health and learning, helping children to manage stress, learn problem solving skills, become proud of their bodies and what they can achieve, and releasing excess energy so they can focus better while learning.

Exercise Guidelines for Ages 5-12

Specialists, including your physio in Richmond, recommend that kids aged 5-12 get 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise each day, regardless of their gender, ability or any other factor. This includes:
  • A variety of aerobic activities – These are cardio based activities where your body uses lots of oxygen, increasing your heart rate and boosting blood flow through the body. Examples of this include running, cycling, dancing, basketball and active play.
  • Strength conditioning activities – About 3 times a week, children should participate in activities that build and tone muscles, strengthen bones, increase flexibility and balance, and support mental health. Strength conditioning activities include yoga, swimming, gymnastics, hiking, cycling, tug of war and even helping you in the garden!
With kids, sports physiotherapists know that the key to getting active is making it fun and appealing to their interests. Try to create variety and make it a family event rather than a compulsory activity, and get friends, nieces and nephews involved to bring a social side into getting active.

Strength Conditioning and Injury Treatment from Your Physio in Richmond

If you or your child want help in getting fit or treating a muscle or ligament injury, make sure you get the best expertise by talking to a sports physiotherapist about treatment and strength conditioning. Make an appointment with your physio in Richmond today and get started on a healthier, happier future!

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