Why exercising is important for children

As obesity rates continue to grow, we here at America SCORES Denver, and throughout all the America SCORES affiliates, try to teach and instill healthy habits in our students. A national evalution of the America SCORES program has show that we increase the physical fitness of our participants, while helping decrease their chances of obesity.

For the full article from the American Council of Exercise please click here.

The Top Ten Reasons Children Should Exercise

1. Kids who exercise are more likely to keep exercising as an adult.
2. Exercise helps kids achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.
3. Regular physical activity helps build and maintain strong, healthy muscles, bones and joints.
4. Exercise aids in the development of important interpersonal skills—this is especially true for participation in team sports.
5. Exercise improves the quantity and quality of sleep.
6. Research shows that exercise promotes improved school attendance and enhances academic performance.
7. Kids who exercise have greater self-esteem and better self-images.
8. Participating in regular physical activity prevents or delays the development of many chronic diseases (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, obesity, hypertension) and promotes health.
9. Children who are active report fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression and a better overall mood.
10. Exercise helps improve motor coordination and enhances the development of various motor performance skills.