To remain healthy, pre-teens and teenagers should be doing light, moderate, and vigorous physical activity each day.
There are several reasons why pre-teens and teens must perform enough physical exercise each day/week. One reason that physical activity is important is that it improves heart and lung health, as well as strengthens bones and muscles. Getting enough exercise helps to boost your child’s immune system and simultaneously reduces the risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, anxiety, and depression.
Not only is physical activity good for overall physical health but it also helps in several other ways.
- Can help to break up a long period of sitting or studying
- Leads to improved concentration and memory
- Learning new skills
- Increasing self-confidence
- Reducing overall stress and helping sleep
- Making and maintaining friendships
How much physical activity do adolescents need? Those who are aged 12-18 need at least one hour of vigorous physical activities along with several hours of lighter physical activity per day at the bare minimum. Younger adults aged 18 or older are recommended to do 2.5-5 hours of moderate physical activity and/or 1.25-2.5 hours of vigorous physical activity, weekly.
