How much physical activity do children need? (2024)

FAQs

How much physical activity do children need? ›

Children ages 3 through 5 years need to be active throughout the day. Children and adolescents ages 6 through 17 need to be active for 60 minutes every day. This may sound like a lot, but don't worry! Children may already be meeting the recommended physical activity levels.

The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2^nd edition [PDF – 13.5 MB], issued by the US Department of Health and Human Services, recommend that children and adolescents ages 6 through 17 years do 60 minutes (1 hour) or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily.

For children aged 5–12 and 13–17, the guidelines recommend: at least 60 minutes a day of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity. no more than 2 hours a day of screen-based activity for entertainment (for example, television, seated electronic games and computer use).

Regular physical activity can help children and adolescents improve cardiorespiratory fitness, build strong bones and muscles, control weight, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and reduce the risk of developing health conditions such as: Heart disease.

Preschoolers should participate in a variety of fun and challenging physical activities that help build skills and coordination, but aren't beyond their abilities. Preschoolers should be active about 3 hours a day, including light, moderate, and vigorous activities.

How much do they need? Kids and teens ages 6 to 17 need at least 60 minutes every day. Most of it can be moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Anything that gets their heart beating faster counts.

Some school officials point out that daily P.E. helps kids get the exercise they need. Plus, physical activity has been found to reduce stress and anxiety. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that kids and teens get at least 60 minutes of exercise each day.

Physical activity guidelines for teens recommend that they get 1 hour or more of moderate to strong physical activity daily. In addition: Most of the physical activity should be aerobic, where they use large muscles and continue for a period of time. Examples of aerobic activity are running, swimming, and dancing.

If a kid does not get enough exercise or physical activity, they may face several issues such as: Increased risk of being overweight or obese. Increased risk of diabetes. Poor bone and muscle health.

Children aged 5-11 should accumulate at least One hour of moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. But more is even better!

What is the best physical activity for kids? ›

Most of the physical activity should be aerobic, where kids use large muscles and continue for a period of time. Examples of aerobic activity are running, swimming, and dancing. School-age kids usually have brief bouts of moderate to strong physical activity alternating with light activity or rest throughout the day.

They should be active for at least 3 hours each day. This should include 1 hour of energetic play, like: running – playing tips, ball games or races at the park. kicking, throwing and jumping – at the park or by creating fun obstacle courses at home.

The amount of physical activity children need depends on their age. Children ages 3 through 5 years need to be active throughout the day. Children and adolescents ages 6 through 17 need to be active for 60 minutes every day.

walk easily up and down steps, one foot to a step. throw, catch, bounce and kick a ball, and use a bat. climb ladders and trees. stand on tiptoe, walk and run on tiptoe, and run quite fast.

Children and adolescents aged 5-17 years

should do at least an average of 60 minutes per day of moderate-to-vigorous intensity, mostly aerobic, physical activity, across the week.

Adults (18-64 years)

At least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity activity such as brisk walking. At least 2 days a week of activities that strengthen muscles. Aim for the recommended activity level but be as active as you are able.

As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day.

Toddlers (aged 1 to 2)

This should be spread throughout the day, including playing outdoors. The 180 minutes can include light activity such as standing up, moving around, rolling and playing, as well as more energetic activity like skipping, hopping, running and jumping.