What Are the Benefits of Exercise for Children & Teens?

All children over 2 years of age should be physically active for at least 60 minutes every day, according to the American Heart Association. This is not only something that will help improve their health and well-being, but starting an exercise program early on will set the stage for the future -- the younger your child starts exercising, the more likely he'll find the process enjoyable and want to continue doing it for the long run. Also, remember that exercise doesn't have to feel like work. Biking, playing in the park, swimming lessons and even running with the dog in the backyard are also good ways for children and teens to stay active.

  1. Better Grades

    • Children and teenagers who exercise perform better in school, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In a number of studies analyzed by the CDC, active children and teens have better attendance and academic behavior, do better in tests, have better memory and concentration and even better grades. In fact, children who exercise regularly are more ready and willing to learn in school.

    Better Behavior

    • Teens who exercise are less likely to get involved in risky activities, according to WebMD. In fact, children who are involved in sports and physical activity are a lot less likely to smoke, drink or have sex at an early age. A 2003 study published in the "Archives of Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine" also showed that teen girls who are actively involved in team sports are less likely to become pregnant or get involved in risky sexual behavior.

    Healthier Weight

    • Children and teens who exercise are less likely to be overweight, according to the American Heart Association. They are also less likely to experience problems connected to obesity, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and certain types of cancer. Children and teens at a healthier weight also have better endurance and strength that kids who are overweight or obese.

    Better Self-Esteem

    • Children and teens who exercise feel better about themselves and have higher self-esteem, according to Psych Central. This is especially true in the case of overweight children who are usually sedentary, regardless of whether exercising causes a weight reduction or not. Psych Central points out that it is the physical activity, which causes an improvement in self-image and mood, even if children and teens don't lose weight as a result.

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