Pediatric Exercise: Truth and/or Consequences

Pediatric exercise recommendations are becoming increasingly more important. The recommendation for physical activity in children and adolescents is 60 min/d of moderate to vigorous physical activity. The United States Department of Health and Human Services recommends that vigorous physical activity be included a minimum of 3 d/wk. In addition, strength training, for both the muscle and bone should be included 3 d/wk. As the incidence of childhood obesity increases and the implications towards chronic disease, musculoskeletal issues, and self-esteem issues continue to rise, it is clear that many children do not meet these guidelines. Despite the childhood obesity epidemic, an estimated 38 million children and adolescents participate in organized sports. Both active and inactive children need to be educated on the benefits of exercise, exercise safety, and appropriate exercise recommendations specific to this specialized population.