Physical activity for children is important, this is something that most people know and understand, but do we know why? In a recent study it was found that muscular fitness (meaning endurance, and strength) can lead to a reduced risk of developing metabolic syndrome during adulthood.
Metabolic Syndrome is "a cluster of conditions — increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels — that occur together, increasing your risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes."
The results showed that not only is cardio-respiratory activity important, but things that build muscular strength and fitness are just as important. Kids from 9-15 with the highest muscular fitness had a 80% lower risk of developing metabolic syndrome as an adult. If kids begin to work on strengthening their muscles as well as cardiovascular health, the risk of metabolic syndrome in adults could decrease worldwide.
Sources:
- https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/09/160924010207.htm
- http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/metabolic-syndrome/home/ovc-20197517
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3756561/
Allison is an intern at EliteFTS. She recently graduated from The Ohio State University with a BS in nutrition and a minor in business. Allison hopes to become a marketer for a fitness or nutrition company.