Benefits of physical activity in children with obesity Essay

Benefits of physical activity in children with obesity - Essay Example the direct effects of physical activity to improved health have been enumerated in their own study done in 1996 on physical activity and health: reduces the incidence of chronic illnesses (heart disease, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, cancer, among others); helps in the maintenance of appropriate weight, strong bones and muscles; reduces depression and anxiety; and promotes the well being of individuals psychologically (US DHHS 1996) Through regular physical activity, those experiencing depression and anxiety will get the opportunity to refocus their thoughts on the benefits of physical fitness; thereby preventing mental disorders. Another relevant discourse on the importance of physical activity was presented by Shilstone (2004) who discussed that there is a current trend of de-emphasizing Physical Education courses in high school. The consequences of this move are: young adults failing fitness exams, prevalence of soft drinks in schools, playgrounds not being fully utilized for sports and physical activities. People who are obese should not view their condition as hopeless. There is no short term treatment for this illness. Obesity can be addressed using a combination of measures over a long time period. The process of intervention necessitates the identification of barriers for the promotion of physical fitness activities and thereby exacerbating obesity. The behavioral targets or barriers that prevent the promotion of measures to specifically address obesity include: decreasing the frequency of viewing television; identifying high energy dense food and decreasing consumption for these; minimizing the consumption of sugar laden drinks; increasing intake for high fiber foods such as vegetables and fruits; and encouraging physical fitness and activities. According to Khan, et.al. (2009), from among the interventions noted, the following categories are most critical: 1) strategies to promote the availability of affordable healthy food and beverages),