Getting kids moving during the school day is about more than just burning off energy. It is a vital part of building a foundation for lifelong health. A large review of 40 different studies involving over 21,000 children found that school based physical activity programs lead to significant improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness. This type of fitness helps the heart and lungs work better during exercise.
In addition to heart and lung health, these programs also improved muscular fitness and body composition for children between the ages of 6 and 12. The study looked at programs lasting at least eight weeks. While the data shows clear improvements in physical fitness, the review also looked at how kids feel emotionally. These factors include self esteem, psychological well being, and social functioning.
It is important to note that the data comes from a mix of randomized and non-randomized trials. While the results show a clear positive trend for children's fitness, the specific ways these programs are delivered can vary. These findings suggest that active school environments provide a structured way to help children build stronger bodies and better fitness levels.
