Physical Benefits of Play

Want your children to develop lifelong positive habits that will increase their health? One great way is to just let them play outside! Getting enough physical activity can help kids avoid the serious health consequences associated with child obesity, including Type II diabetes, osteoporosis and heart health issues, a recent British Heart Foundation study found. Worse yet, being seriously overweight in youth seems to greatly increase the chances of being obese as an adult. The study reported, "Data show that 26 - 41% of children who are obese at pre-school age and 42-63% of obese school-age children become obese adults."
The positive gains from encouraging children to play for at least an hour a day are tremendous. Consistent exercise like frequent visits to your local playground can lead to better cardiovascular health, increased metabolism, endurance, muscular fitness and even stronger bones. Benefits can be seen from starting as young as preschool age, the Heart Foundation study noted: "There is growing evidence that increased physical activity in preschool children is associated with improved physical health status" - so make sure your children get out to the playground early and often.
But what makes kids want to exercise more? The study indicated there were lots of ways to make youth more likely to go outside instead of more sedentary activities like watching TV or playing video games. Motivating factors included having a choice of exercise activities, emphasizing the fun and social aspects of fitness and the sense of achievement gained from completing physical challenges.
Can you imagine one single playground meeting all these factors and inspiring kids to get out and play? We at BCI Burke can. Our Nucleus playground system can be incorporated with our Intensity fitness complex play events in what we call "fusion" design, building a playground with both traditional style, social, fun elements, and physically challenging events.
For information on BCI Burke playground equipment, or to get connected with a Burke Playground Consultant in your area, visit www.bciburke.com.