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Evidence based physical activity for school-age youth.
William B Strong1, Robert M Malina, Cameron J R Blimkie
1Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, USA. wstrong003@comcast.net
The Journal of Pediatrics
|June 24, 2005
Summary
Daily physical activity is crucial for youth health. Evidence suggests school-age children need 60+ minutes of moderate to vigorous activity daily for optimal health and behavioral outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Physical activity significantly impacts health and behavior in youth.
- Current recommendations and observed outcomes require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effects of physical activity on health and behavior outcomes in youth.
- To develop evidence-based recommendations for physical activity in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature review of 850 articles was conducted.
- Expert panelists evaluated, summarized, and discussed findings, including evidence strength and gaps.
Main Results:
- Intervention studies typically involved supervised moderate to vigorous physical activity for 30-45 minutes, 3-5 days/week.
- Greater physical activity duration is likely needed for comparable benefits in unsupervised, daily settings.
Conclusions:
- School-age youth require a minimum of 60 minutes of daily moderate to vigorous physical activity.
- Activities should be developmentally appropriate, enjoyable, and varied to promote consistent engagement.