I wanted to share this article that I came across on Livestrong.com. I use the app on my phone to track my eating and exercise and find the site to be very useful and informative. I Certainly will take no credit for this article as I am simply copying and pasting, nonetheless it is an intersting read by Stewart Flaherty.
Stewart Flaherty is in his early years as a writer. With a sport psychology master’s degree and a successful coaching background, Flaherty has experience in improving performance in a number of areas. He has studied sport psychology, nutrition and coaching to a degree level.
Types
Youth sports can be played on a recreational or more competitive basis. In relation to obesity the level of competition is not important. The primary factor is that youth sports encourage regular physical activity on an enjoyable environment. Sports, such as soccer that require a high amount of running and aerobic exercise, may be most effective to help young players lose weight.
Significance
Researchers from Colorado State University reported that lack of physical activity is a contributor to childhood obesity. Participation in youth sports will be a crucial factor for any child to increase physical activity level, and subsequently reduce their risk of obesity. The Washington Post reported on the damage done by a decrease in youth sports. The article stated that cuts to youth sports were directly correlated to an increase in obesity and behavioral problems in young people.
Benefits
The increased physical activity of youth sports participation will have a positive impact on obesity risk. The World Health Organization cited increased physical activity as a key factor in fighting obesity. The reach of youth sports can go beyond purely an activity level. Researchers Caroline Payne and Kate Fogarty from Florida University reported research finding children who participated in youth sports to be more nutrition-conscious.
Risks
Obesity is a disease that increases the risk of young people to a number of dangerous health conditions. The World Health Organization states that obesity is associated with respiratory difficulties and musculoskeletal problems. Obesity can also leave young people at increased risk of heart disease and certain forms of cancer in later life.
Expert Insight
Dr. Barbara Moore researched the impact of increased physical activity and youth sports participation on childhood obesity. Moore found that in overweight children and teens increased physical activity on three to seven days per week leads to a reduction in body fat. The study recommended that school-age youth participate in physical activity for 60 minutes. The physical activity should be moderate to vigorous intensity. It is also important that the physical activity is enjoyable and developmentally appropriate. Participating in a favorite sport is an easy way to ensure this.
References
Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/130732-youth-sports-obesity/#ixzz1nQPMgQec
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