Active children make active teenagers

New Zealand, March10: A new study explores that children are by nature rambunctious and playful, and if this is encouraged through out their childhood it is an excellent way of continuing the habit in later years.

Researchers from the University of Otago analyzed the data out of the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study, which tracked 1000 people from their birth in 1972-73 in to their teenage.

They recorded the outdoor activities of kids at the tender ages of seven and nine, like tree climbing, playing on swings, paddling pools, cycling and partaking in other social and recreational family activities. At a later date when the kids were 15 and 18 years, their physical activities were once again measured.

Dr Rose Richards, the lead author says the study sheds light on the fact that the participants who were given opportunities to play in childhood and be part of lively family turned out to be active teenagers.

Dr Richards said there was enough evidence that if kids start off on a dynamic lifestyle, the chance of a child remaining active is greater than if they were left to their own devices which is very important for health and development.

Adolescents usually are bogged down by a lot happening in their lives, such as social responsibilities, academic pressure and as a consequence physical activity declines being regulated to the side line.

Dr Richards said, "The nice thing about this is that the message is very positive for parents - to hang out with their kids and have a lot of fun."

Family activities, like swimming, hiking, or camping, are highly recommended as a good way to show that exercise can be exciting and enjoyable. If children lead a vigorous life right from early childhood, the chance of them emerging as active teenagers is greater than if they are left to their own devices. Children need guidance and what better way to keep them fit than through fun activities with mom and dad?

Dr Richards commented that "Having opportunities for children to play outdoors in the home environment, and encouraging a family dynamic where regular participation in social and recreational activities is part of normal family life, gives kids a head start for staying active when they are older."

This study was published in the March issue of the Journal of Adolescent Health