Physical activity

Topic Editor: John Reilly, PhD, University of Strathclyde, United Kingdom

Child obesity is a growing problem in many nations. In 2005, the number of overweight children under the age of 5 was approximately 20 million. Despite common beliefs that children are naturally active, rates of physical activity are low in several countries. In fact, behaviours associated with a sedentary lifestyle are often common place in the daily routine of young children. Sedentary behaviours, such as television viewing and playing computer games, typically require little energy expenditure. These behaviours are not necessarily in opposition to physical activity because a child who engages in physical activity can also spend a significant amount of time in sedentary behaviours. However, given that sedentary living might have long-term negative health consequences and that physical activity is beneficial to children’s health and development, it is important to find ways to encourage children to develop a healthy lifestyle from an early age.

See also...

• What do we know?
• What can be done?
• According to experts
• Key messages
  
  
• Obesity