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Not enough exercise is a major
reason for the growing rate of children who are overweight. |
Unfortunately, inactivity is getting to be common
among children. Children today are less active than they were just
a few years ago for many reasons. Here are some reasons why:
Many do not get physical education each day at
school.
Kids are watching more TV.
There may be few affordable or available places to play.
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Exercise can strengthen children's bones now as well as later in life. |
Kids must build strong bones in childhood so they
have strong bones later in life.
Weight-bearing sports such as running, gymnastics, tumbling, and
dance help kids build stronger bones. Non-weight-bearing exercise,
such as swimming, is good exercise but not as good for bones.
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Active children may increase their chance of becoming healthy adults. |
Children who enjoy exercise now may build a lifelong,
healthy habit of being physically active. If they stay active as
adults, they will enjoy better health and may live longer. Physical
activity can decrease the risk of obesity, cancer, diabetes, high
blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease among adults. People who
stay active on regularly tend to live longer than people who
do not.
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Children need to eat a healthy
diet and plenty of fluids for active play. |
Children need to get enough calories to give them
the energy to be active. Foods give children the energy and nutrients
they need to grow and the energy they need for active play. Active
children also need to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and
after exercise. |
