Within the framework of the last Extraordinary Congress of the Spanish Association of Pediatrics, pediatricians have recalled that activity and physical exercise are necessary in the maintenance of health. That's why they should encourage during childhood, in order to prevent pathologies such as obesity, and help in psychological well-being.
In general, moderate to vigorous physical activity should be practiced. one hour a day for at least five days a week. To meet that goal, it is not enough with Physical Education hours, but children must have the opportunity to practice their favorite sport, or play freely. In the face of summer it will not be difficult, but during the school year, there are times when because the school is too far away, or the burden of homework, ... some children will have it complicated.
The pace we are following today (schedules, extracurricular activities, etc.) is not a facilitator.
We cannot forget that the increase in Obesity in our country, is related to changes in habits such as reduced physical activity and greater inactivity. Experts point out that sedentary non-educational activities cannot exceed two hours per day, taking into account that sedentary is a problem comparable to hypertension or smoking.
We reiterate the importance of children and adolescents incorporating sports activity as a lifestyle
But physical activity is not only associated with health, but allows to enhance certain abilities and skills in children. For example, between two and five years, sensory perception, motor coordination, and sense of rhythm can be stimulated, while between six and 12 years of age, domain control and balance control are sought, as well as the improvement of automatic movements
It seems to be important to show different sports between the ages of 10 and 11, and try to avoid abandonment in adolescence.
There is much talk about promoting physical exercise in schools, but the family is also very important in transmitting these healthy habits, as with eating.
In any case, to compensate for the possible physical activity deficit during the weekIt may be a good idea to spend some time on the weekend to practice family hiking, promote sports with everyone's participation, or swim in the beach / pool.
