Children (5- 12 years) and Youth (12-18 years)
Although less is understood about health benefits of physical activity for children there is consistent evidence to show that regular physical activity during childhood is associated with improved cardiovascular fitness, self-esteem, good cholesterol, bone health and reduction of the chance of getting unhealthy weight gain leading to obesity. Children and adolescents should participate in a range of different types of physical activity. There is evidence to suggest that jogging, skipping, hopping, jumping and landing are important for children's bone health. Watching more that 2 hours of TV a day increases the risk of becoming overweight and obese, the same goes for many hours of computer use. The guidelines that were put in place targets free time that child has especially during the day.
Summary of National Activity Guidelines for Children and Youth
Subgroup/reference
|
Physical
Activity Guidelines |
Sedentary
behaviour |
Children
5- 12 years |
At least 60 minutes (and up to several hours) of moderate- to vigorous- intensity physical activity every day |
No more than2 hours a day using electronic media for entertainment (e.g. computer, internet, games, TV) particularly during daylight hours (unless it is educational) |
Youth
12- 18 years |
At least 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous- intensity physical activity every day |
No more than2 hours a day using electronic media for entertainment (e.g. computer, internet, games, TV) particularly during daylight hours (unless it is educational) |