ABSTRACT
The benefits of physical activity (PA) have been well documented (1, 2). There is irrefutable evidence that engaging in a physically active lifestyle can help to mitigate numerous chronic diseases such as those that relate to the cardiovascular system, several forms of cancer, and osteoporosis (2). In addition to the direct physical benefits, there are numerous psychological benefits such as overall improvement of well-being, a reduction in depression and anxiety, and an increase in cognitive functioning (3). Although these benefits of PA have been examined across all ages, recent concerns over the growing obesity rates among youth have highlighted the need for specific attention pertaining to PA among children and adolescents (4). Some of the recognized health benefits of PA for youth include a reduction in high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity, as well as improved skeletal health (5). Observational studies have suggested that there is a dose–response relationship indicating that greater amounts of PA result in more health benefits (5).
