Boy wearing mask

Exercise and regular physical activity in children and adolescents is important in promoting lifelong health and well-being. According to the U.S. Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, children ages 6-17 years old should get at least one hour or more of physical activity each day. Ensuring your child gets adequate exercise can be done at home and at school.

Never Miss a Beat!

Get Healthy Tips Sent to Your Phone!

Message and data rates may apply. Text the word STOP to opt out and HELP for help. Click here to view the privacy and terms.

What are the benefits of exercise?

Exercise helps children grow and remain healthy. It has been shown that regular physical activity can help children improve cardiorespiratory fitness, build strong bones and muscles, control weight, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and reduce the risk of developing health conditions such as:

Physical activity is crucial in improving your child’s quality of life by decreasing their risk of developing crippling health conditions and improving their brain function.

How does exercise help children in school?

Studies have shown that children who get at least one hour of exercise a day are more likely to perform better in school than their counterparts who go without exercise. Exercise has been linked to increased oxygen flow to the brain and increased neurotransmitters that help your child improve his or her brain function. Students who are physically active tend to have better grades, better school attendance, improved memory, and better classroom behaviors.

Recess could be one of the most important parts of your child’s school day to help increase their performance levels. They can play all sorts of active games and rid themselves of their built-up energy. But what if your child does not have recess?

Physical education, activity breaks, extra-curricular activities including sports are another great way to increase your child’s activity and brain function. Getting your child involved in school and after school is a great way to help improve their overall health and wellness.

How can I encourage my child to exercise?

It is important to encourage your child to be physically active with age-appropriate activities that are enjoyable and that offer variety.

It is recommended that this exercise be moderate (i.e. walking, dancing, hiking, bike riding) or something more vigorous (i.e. running, playing tag, swimming, etc.).

There are a variety of activities your child can choose from to keep them active, including:

  • Hiking
  • Bicycle riding
  • Dancing
  • Skateboarding
  • Rollerblading
  • Swimming
  • Martial arts
  • Games like tug-of-war or hopscotch
  • Swinging
  • Skipping
  • Jumping rope

Introducing exercise at a young age increases the likelihood your child will continue exercising through adulthood. They will be more likely to continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle because it has been a major part of their daily routine.

Talk to your child’s pediatrician about their weight and physical activity. If you need a pediatrician, please visit pinnaclehealth.org/primary care.   To find out more information on UPMC Pinnacle’s current programs for youth or for tips and resources, please contact Monica Lazur, Youth Wellness Program Coordinator at (717) 782-4703 or mlazur@pinnaclehealth.org.

Featuring Monica Lazur, MPH

About UPMC Harrisburg

UPMC Harrisburg is a nationally recognized leader in providing high-quality, patient-centered health care services in south central PA. and surrounding rural communities. UPMC Harrisburg includes seven acute care hospitals and over 160 outpatient clinics and ancillary facilities serving Dauphin, Cumberland, Perry, York, Lancaster, Lebanon, Juniata, Franklin, Adams, and parts of Snyder counties. These locations care for more than 1.2 million area residents yearly, providing life-saving emergency care, essential primary care, and leading-edge diagnostic services. Its cardiovascular program is nationally recognized for its innovation and quality. It also leads the region with its cancer, neurology, transplant, obstetrics-gynecology, maternity care, and orthopaedic programs.

This article is most relevant to people located in Central Pa.. If you want to only be shown articles relevant to your region, then please update your preferred region here: