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In theory, it should be easy for kids to get plenty of excercise- with all of that boundless energy, they never sit still! Yet, childhood obesity is at an alarming rate in the United States.

Video games, TV and the increased pressures to excell academically all add to this problem. Sometimes we forget to let our kids get out and just “run around”.

Below is an interesting article on why excericise is important and essential to a healthy childhood.

When most adults think about exercise, they imagine working out in the gym on a treadmill or lifting weights. But for children, exercise means playing and being physically active. Kids exercise when they have gym class at school, soccer practice, or dance class. They’re also exercising when they’re at recess, riding bikes, or playing tag.

The Many Benefits of Exercise

Everyone can benefit from regular exercise. A child who is active will:

* have stronger muscles and bones
* have a leaner body because exercise helps control body fat
* be less likely to become overweight
* decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes
* possibly lower blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels
* have a better outlook on life

In addition to the health benefits of regular exercise, kids who are physically fit sleep better and are better able to handle the physical and emotional challenges that a typical day presents - be that running to catch a bus, bending down to tie a shoe, or studying for a test.

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