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President's Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition

  • Only one in three children are physically active every day

  • Children now spend more than seven and a half hours a day in front of a screen (e.g., TV, videogames, computer).

 

 

World Health Organization

Benefits of Physical Activity for Young People

Appropriate practice of physical activity assists young people to:

  • Develop a healthy musculoskeletal tissues (i.e. bones, muscles and joints);

  • Develop a healthy cardiovascular system (i.e. heart and lungs);

  • Develop neuromuscular awareness (i.e. coordination and movement control);

  • Maintain a healthy body weight.

  • Improve self esteem

  • Improve grades

 

Physical activity has been associated with psychological benefits in young people by improving their control over symptoms of anxiety and depression. Similarly, participation in physical activity can assist in the social development of young people by providing opportunities for self-expression, building self-confidence, social interaction and integration. It has also been suggested that physically active young people more readily adopt other healthy behaviors (e.g. avoidance of tobacco, alcohol and drug use) and demonstrate higher academic performance at school.

 

 

AHA Recommendation

All children age 2 and older should:

  • Participate in at least 60 minutes of enjoyable, moderate-intensity physical activities every day that are developmentally appropriate and varied.

  • If your child or children don't have a full 60-minute activity break each day, try to provide at least two 30-minute periods or four 15-minute periods in which they can engage in vigorous activities appropriate to their age, gender and stage of physical and emotional development

 

What Kind of Personal Trainer is Best for Children?

 

Here are some recommendations for finding the best trainer for your child:

 

  • The trainer should have a degree and/or nationally recognized certification The trainer should have experience training children, including a sense of humor and patience.

  • The trainer should create training sessions around fun activities that aren't typical gym routines and include input from the child.

  • The trainer should offer a balanced routine of strength, cardio and core exercise.

  • The trainer should help the child find activities he enjoys and will do on his own.

  • The trainer should have references from parents of other kid-clients.

  • Ask questions about the trainer's philosophy about working with kids and setting goals and make sure you agree with the approach.

  • Attend the first one or two sessions with your child and see if it meets your needs.

 

 

As a parent you need to be patient and encourage your child to get the most of the sessions. To improve motor skills, speed, and coordination, children need to work with a trainer once or twice a week for three to four months before they develop a habit of exercise and be motivated to stay active on their own.

 

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