Sedentary Lifestyles in Middle & High School Ages
Create healthy habits now for a brighter future!
"Studies show in the past few years, children and youth are sitting a lot more than they used to..."
- (Lou, 2014) -
Why is an active lifestyle important at this age?
Daily activity is fundamental in this age group as it builds a great foundation for healthy future lifestyles. Research shows that there is a relationship between youth physical activity levels and adult physical activity levels. This can be a negative relationship if the children are forced to participate in exercise (Taylor et al, 1999).
It is recommended for this age group that they do some type of physical activity for about an hour a day (World Health Organization, 2022).
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It is very easy to get caught up in schoolwork and home life, but remember to stay well-balanced! Don't forget, rest is important, but not too much!
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Here are some ideas to help improve!
With these activities, it allows your body and mind to wake up and function their best! Listed below are three main time consumers in a day for this age group. We will discuss different ways to tackle the sedentary lifestyle within these time brackets.
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For parents and teachers learn more here for ideas on activities.
School + Sports
- Soccer
- Running
- Basketball
- Baseball
- Cheer
- Tennis
Family + Friend time
- Leisure walk
- Hiking
- Play tag
- If studying in a group, take a group break
- Trampoline places
Personal time
- Take a yoga class
- Go to the gym
- Walk to get a coffee
- Bike ride
- Walk your dog
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Parents and teachers, what can you do?
The Benefits
1
Mind + Body
With daily activity, it is seen that discipline problems decrease and attention spans increase. Activity helps wake your mind up! Your memory and motivation increase. It allows more opportunity for your brain cells to grow
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Watch the video linked below for a great example and more information!
Referenes
Taylor, W. C., Blair, S. N., Cummings, S. S., Wun, C. C., & Malina, R. M. (1999). Childhood and adolescent physical activity patterns and adult physical activity. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 31(1), 118–123. https://doi.org/10.1097/00005768-199901000-00019
World Health Organization. (2022, October 5). Physical Activity. Retrieved from World Health Organization website: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/physical-activity