Today I researched how much physical activity young people should get. According to Sport New Zealand, children and young people aged 5 to 18 should aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. This can include things like walking, cycling, playing sports, or dancing. The activity doesn’t have to be all at once and can be spread throughout the day.
It is also recommended to include muscle-strengthening and bone-strengthening activities a few times each week. Too much recreational screen time should be avoided, with less than 2 hours a day outside of school being advised.
Physical activity is important for overall health. It helps build strong muscles and bones, improves heart health, and can improve mood and reduce stress. Being active can also help with focus and energy for school.
My tip for staying active: Try to mix different activities throughout the week and break the 60 minutes into smaller sessions if needed. This can make it easier to keep up with daily activity and still fit it around school and other commitments.
Overall, being consistent with physical activity supports both physical and mental well-being. It helps establish healthy habits that can be maintained throughout life.