By Penn Treaty reporters | The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that children and adolescents have at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. But research has shown that with more kids spending time on smart phones and computers, only 25 percent of kids are getting the recommended amount, the AHA says.
Penn Treaty sixth-grade reporters recently interviewed their physical education teacher Brian Bonner on the importance of students getting the proper amount of aerobic exercise.
- Why is it important for kids to get aerobic exercise? Aerobic exercise promotes cardiovascular health and fitness.
- What happens if kids don’t get enough aerobic exercise? Not getting enough aerobic exercise could have long-term lasting effects such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
- What are some other ways that kids can get aerobic exercise that are not as well known? There are lots of other ways such as
:walking the steps in the school. Penn Treaty has a lot of stairs. Find an aerobic activity that you enjoy doing. Participating in cross-fit activities could be fun. Play a sport that you enjoy doing. Always be mindful of engaging in physical activity.
- What advice would you give to kids who are trying to exercise more? I would first tell them to be consistent. Set goals that are achievable and realistic. Monitor your progress. Don’t get discouraged if you do not see immediate results. Be patient when it comes to progress. Don’t measure your progress by your weight or how you look. Focus on progress. Be patient and focus on your goal. Sometimes you have to put down the phone and iPad and remove all distractions.
- Is there anything else you would like to add? Aerobic activity may not always be fun. But the important thing is to always maintain a positive attitude and be consistent with your efforts in achieving your goals.
Written by reporters in the sixth grade at Penn Treaty School.
Illustration by Kimberly Veguilla, Chester Charter Scholars Academy
