Posted on March 26th, 2019
How can schools and parents can encourage children to exercise?
Obesity talk is everywhere you look at the moment, whether it be on the news or a billboard at your local bus stop and so it should be, the UK have the biggest epidemic of obesity in children and it is rising each day.
More recently in the media schools have been criticised and are being held liable. We disagree with schools being held solely accountable, we believe that communities as a whole should be responsible and all work together in helping to combat this problem.
As a nation we need to encourage our children to exercise more often.
There are many experts who believe this epidemic has come from children spending too much time in front of the screen and not enough time outdoors engaging in physical activity.
If obesity is not tackled in childhood this can lead to life threatening illnesses as they reach adulthood, such as type 2 diabetes, some forms of cancer and cardiovascular disease. In fact, obesity has just been named the UKs biggest killer and smoking the second.
With 20% of children leaving primary school and 25% of children leaving high school being classed as clinically obese. Children spend most of their time at school, so school age is the time we need to act.
We still feel that schools should play a part in helping children to become more active. So, here’s a few tips on how making a few small changes can make a big difference to our children’s health.
To and From School:
If you live close by to the school, then try leaving the car at home and either walk or cycle to school with your children. Just by setting your alarm as extra 15 minutes earlier can make a massive difference. Not only will this help children to become more fit, it will help the parents as well.
Break Times:
Break and Lunch times are the perfect time for children to run around and exercise. Whatever the weather we should be encouraging them to wrap up and play games outside. This will help with their studies as research has also shown that physical activity can have a positive effect on their focus, learning and behaviour in the classroom.
The Daily Mile:
The Daily Mile is a great initiative set up to encourage children to walk, jog or run 1 mile each day. It takes around 15 minutes and is a great way to start the day. It is free to do, although some schools have chosen to have a Daily Mile track installed. This can help to manage the children whilst taking part in The Daily Mile, it can also create an all-weather safety surface, which is perfect for any area that may become boggy during the wetter months.
Exercise Equipment:
Outdoor exercise equipment is the perfect way to encourage children to participate in fitness through play. We offer a wide range of affordable fitness equipment to suit any budget. From Outdoor Gym Equipment, Trim Trails to Exergaming and Ninja Fitness courses. Outdoor exercise improves overall well being, develops motor skills and can improve brain function which makes it vital for learning in school.