We live in a society where young people are spending more time on screens and less time being active. A recent government report suggests that a staggering 9 in 10 Australian young people don’t move enough 1! This raises serious concerns for the long-term health of our next generation.
As a parent, do you know how much activity your adolescent should be doing? These are the recommendations according to “The National Physical Activity Guidelines 1”:
- Young people aged 13-17 years should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity every day. 1
- Moderate intensity means that the activities require some effort but you can still hold a conversation
- Vigorous intensity means that the activities lead to harder breathing, or puffing and panting
- Young people’s physical activity should include a variety of aerobic activities, including some vigorous intensity activity. 1
- On at least three days per week, young people should engage in activities that strengthen muscle and bone. 1
- To achieve additional health benefits, young people should engage in more activity – up to several hours per day. 1
- Young people aged 13-17 years should minimise the time they spend being sedentary every day. 1
- Limit use of electronic media for entertainment (e.g. television, seated electronic games and computer use) to no more than two hours a day - lower levels are associated with reduced health risks. 1
- Break up long periods of sitting as often as possible. 1
Why is this important? There are many benefits:
Social benefits
- Creates opportunities to have fun with friends;
- Reduces anti-social behaviour, including aggressive and disruptive actions; and
- Develops cooperation and teamwork skills.
Emotional benefits
- Improves self-esteem and confidence;
- Helps you manage anxiety and stress; and
- Improves concentration.
Physical benefits
- Promotes healthy growth and development;
- Builds strong muscles and bones;
- Improves physical fitness, including coordination and movement skills; and
- Reduces your risk of disease and unhealthy weight gain.
As a nation, we simply don’t move enough! The behaviours learnt at a young age will carry through life; this is why it is extremely important that adolescents are being active. This does not have to be specific, organised sport – it can simply mean riding a bike for short trips instead of being driven, kicking the footy instead of playing on the iPad, going for a family walk instead of watching a movie. Physiotherapists love to get people moving, and here at Back In Motion Eltham our philosophy is ‘Movement for Life”, please get in touch if you would like to take steps towards a healthier lifestyle!
References:
- The Australian Government: Department of Health: https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/health-pubhlth-strateg-active-evidence.htm
This article is written by Tom Collier, Physiotherapist at Back In Motion Eltham.
If you would like further information in taking steps towards a healthier lifestyle for yourself or a family member, please contact our practice on 9439 6776 to book in a consultation with our team.