ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the health and fitness benefits of regular physical activity in children age 6–17, although, as already indicated, somewhat similar information is available for children between the ages 3 and 6. There is a strong relationship between regular physical activity and cardiovascular fitness in youth and children both between the ages of 3–6 and 6–17. Regular physical activity programs have also been shown to improve muscular fitness. Children and adolescents in the United States spend a substantial amount of time engaged in sedentary behaviors. Single bouts of physical activity intervention have been shown to improve short-term children's cognitive functioning. In addition, there are some data to suggest that increased physical activity is associated with improved academic achievement and engagement in school. Local state and federal governments also can play an important role in the promotion of physical activity among the children and youth.
