ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the physiological responses to physical activity and the associated health benefits in children and adolescents. In the context of physical activity, physiological responses refer to how an individual’s cells, tissues, and organs adapt when they are exposed to activity of varying intensity and duration. Physiological responses to physical activity are influenced by factors such as age, sex, physical disability, and environmental conditions. Physical activity intensity directly relates to energy expenditure, and ranges from activities demanding very low levels of energy expenditure to activities requiring extreme levels of energy expenditure. Young people are encouraged to participate in a variety of physical activities that are age appropriate and enjoyable for at least 60 minutes each day. It is recommended that the physical activities be of moderate-to-vigorous intensity and include vigorous intensity physical activity on at least three days a week.
