It is necessary to establish a physical activity time frame for children of at least 3 hours a day to ensure growth, development and avoid childhood obesity.
Leading physical experts at the Indonesian Ministry of Health recommend it to create a positive impact on children's growth and development.
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| Physical activities such as swimming can reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease while supporting brain development and enhancing cognitive skills. (Source: Antara) |
"Children are physically active, helping their muscles stay flexible, which stimulates bone growth and helps increase height."
Dr. Rizky Kusuma Wardhani, physical rehabilitation and pediatric specialist at Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital emphasized that at an online discussion on children's health issues. According to Ms. Wardhani, regular physical activity every day will help children's development; The bone and muscle system will grow longer and more supple.
Children aged 3-5 years can participate in activities such as running and jumping indoors or outdoors for about 3 hours. Children in this age group "can do light physical activities like taking leisurely walks, doing homework or moving around the house," she commented.
Children aged 6 - 17 years old or those attending school, in addition to 3 hours of physical activity, can supplement with organized and planned sports activities at least 3 times a week, lasting 60 minutes.
The expert also recommends moderate to vigorous physical activities, such as running and cycling for longer periods or distances. “Anything can be done, as long as the kids move.”
Physical activities, such as running, jumping and even standing, are weight-bearing in nature and help build strong bones and strengthen muscles, she explains.
Physical activities can also stimulate gross and fine motor skills in children and improve social skills by playing with peers. Children who engage in physical activity can reduce their risk of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease while supporting brain development and enhancing cognitive skills.
