August 22nd

By Mutt Mulligan

“Not Enough Exercise” #1 Health Problem for U.S. Children, According to New Poll

According to a University of Michigan national poll on children’s health, the number one issue facing kids in the U.S. is a lack of exercise. Respondents ranked the related issue of childhood obesity as the second biggest health concern. The poll has been conducted for the last seven years, and this first time that the lack of exercise has topped the poll.

The poll measures public perceptions, opinions and priorities about the biggest health concerns facing children in communities across the country. “Not getting enough exercise” was a problem identified by about two out of every five adults. Other top health concerns include childhood obesity, smoking, drug abuse and bullying.

According to experts, increased exercise not only helps prevent obesity, it can also improve attention and learning in school, help kids get a better night’s sleep, and create an improved sense of well-being.

Getting your children outside – and out from behind the television or computer screen – is one of the best ways to encourage more exercise.  TurfMutt says “Nature Starts in Your Own Back Yard.”

For some tips on getting a move on with your kids visit the Let’s Move website.  Or, do you have some simple advice on how you get your kids outdoors?