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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What are the health risks for children who are physically inactive?

    Related Topics
    Children's Health Fitness Fitness and Sports Medicine
    What health problems can develop from children and teens being physically inactive?
    • 2 answers
    • Fumi Somehara
    • Kirsty Woods
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  • Fumi Somehara

    Dietitian, Nutritionist

    Fumi is a dietitian (APD) specialising in Dancer's Health and Eating Disorders Treatment. Her work is grounded in Health At Every Size (R) and Non-Diet … View Profile

    Physical inactivity is related to childhood overweight/obesity, which then increases the child's risk of developing chronic iseases such as heart disease, diabetes and some types of cancer. Not to mention the bullying and harrassment that often happens (unfortunately) in schools for children who are overweight or obese, which will have a hugely negative impact on the child's health - both physically and pscyhologically.

    A sedentary or physically inactive lifestyle can also impact on a child's mental health. Playing team sports gives a child numerous life benefits, like developing independence, responsibility, teamwork and communication skills. If team sports isn't the child's “thing”, then just going for a walk or gardening can help refresh the mind.

    Kind regards,

    Fumi

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  • Kirsty Woods

    Exercise Physiologist

    Hi I’m Kirsty Woods,I would like to use my experience, expertise and passion to help you reach your weight, energy and health goalsI have been … View Profile

    Physical activity levels in children has been linked to academic performance and mental health and also been shown to determine health and lifestyle later on in life.

    Reducing sedentary activities such as TV is one way to improve physical activity outcomes.

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