The Three Elements of Fitness

Here is a great excerpt from Kidshealth.org about the importance of physical activity that we wanted to share with all of you! If you've ever watched kids on a playground, you've seen the three elements of fitness in action when they:

1. Run away from the kid who's "it" (endurance)

Endurance is developed when teens regularly engage in aerobic activity. During aerobic exercise, the heart beats faster and a person breathes harder. When done regularly and for extended periods of time, aerobic activity strengthens the heart and improves the body's ability to deliver oxygen to all its cells.

 

 

 

2. Cross the monkey bars (strength)

Most teens don't need a formal weight-training program to be strong. But all weight lifting should be done under the supervision of an experienced adult who works with them. Push-ups, stomach crunches, pull-ups, and other exercises help tone and strengthen muscles.  also incorporate strength activities in their play when they climb, do a handstand, or wrestle.

 

3. Bend down to tie their shoes (flexibility)

Stretching exercises help improve flexibility, allowing muscles and joints to bend and move easily through their full range of motion. Young people look for opportunities every day to stretch when they try to get a toy just out of reach, practice a split, or do a cartwheel.

 

Aerobic exercise can be fun for everyone.

 

Express Question: What are some activities that you enjoy each day that could be considered exercise? Reply to this post with your answer!