|
Youth Fitness
Childhood obesity has been rising at the same rate as
obesity in adults. It is estimated that approximately
1-25% of children between the ages of 6 to 12 are
overweight (www.Pediatrics.about.com 2000). There are
many underlying factors that may contribute to childhood
obesity including genetics, diet, physical inactivity,
psychological problems, and other health issues.
Everyday we are bombarded by the reports that today's
youth are less fit and have more body fat than their
peers even ten years ago. Are these reports really true
or are kids today just growing faster and larger than
ever before? It is a fact that today’s youth are less
fit than ever before, but, fortunately, it isn't a
problem that we are doomed to accept.
Exercise and fitness are important for all children and
youth. Fitness for children and youth includes
resistance training (also called weight or strength
training), cardiovascular training, and flexibility.
Being physically active can encourage the maintenance of
a healthy weight, increased bone density and increased
core strength and stability. It also promotes
cardiovascular and muscular endurance as well as social,
psychological, and emotional growth that can occur in
organized activities.
|
