The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the percentage of children aged 6–11 years in the United States who were obese increased from 7% in 1980 to nearly 18% in 2012. Similarly, the percentage of adolescents aged 12–19 years who were obese increased from 5% to nearly 21% over the same period. It’s clear that making kids aware of the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle is more vital than it’s ever been. So how can KidFit help?
Benefits:
- Increased knowledge of healthy habits
Once their coaches start to inform them of the dangers of eating too much sugar or refined carbohydrates, as well as the issues that can arise from a sedentary lifestyle, kids that participate in KidFit are more likely to incorporate healthier habits into their lives and into their future. - Improved athleticism
Obviously people who work out are stronger, faster, have more endurance and are generally healthier than those who don’t—and that goes for kids, too. Some recent evidence suggests that exercise provides the best long-term benefits in bone mineral density (BMD) when it is initiated before puberty. - Boost to social skills
KidFit is a great place to make friends, but it’s also an environment that can teach children many social skills. - Improved school performance
Exercise isn’t just good for a kid’s body—it can help their mind, too. A 2013 study from the British Medical Journal found that the more active children are at age 11, the better they performed in exams in English, math and science in the following years (ages 13 and 15/16). - Improved confidence
So, what does a kid get from the all the aforementioned advantages to doing KidFit? They become more confident humans, more willing to take risks and believe in their potential. They become smarter, more dedicated, more respectful, and healthier. They learn how to interact with their peers and build valuable social skills. They gain valuable knowledge into health and fitness that they can apply for the rest of their lives. All of which sets them up for a great future, wherever that future may lead them.