(Columbia-AP) Nov. 1, 2004 - A new study
says preschoolers may not be getting the exercise they
need.
The University of South Carolina's Arnold School of
Public Health school tracked children as young as 3- to
5-years-old and found they may be on their way to
obesity because of a lack of exercise.
The study was published Monday in the November issue
of the journal "Pediatrics."
In many cases children observed got about an hour of
activity per eight-hour day in preschool, just half of
what is recommended by the National Association for
Sport and Physical Education.
USC researcher Russ Pate says obesity rates are
skyrocketing in kids. He says parents should ask about
activity hours when considering a preschool.
The study is one of a few to focus on the physical
activity of preschoolers.
Researchers say parents and teachers should consider
the exercise opportunities when planning children's
preschooling. The American Academy of Pediatrics
recommends parents and teachers routinely promote
physical activity, including unstructured play at home,
in school, in childcare settings, and throughout the
community
posted 8:33am by Chris
Rees