The Benefits of Physical Activity for Children: Especially in Water

If you’ve ever wondered about water in your child’s life, let me tell you: it’s an incredibly powerful tool. Science and parenting experience back it up, and today we’re going to dive deep (literally) into the benefits, especially when it’s done in the water.

Why is Physical Activity Vital?

Over time, we have discovered that physical activity is more than just a way to keep children busy. It is an opportunity to promote a healthy and happy lifestyle from an early age. When children play sports, they enjoy numerous benefits, from promoting discipline to boosting self-esteem. In addition, physical activity helps reduce anxiety, improve academic performance and teach important life skills.

How Long Should Assets Spend?

The World Health Organization provides clear guidelines on the ideal amount of time children should spend on physical activity, based on their age. From a young age through to adolescence, movement is essential. Young children should spend time exploring the world through movement, whether it’s crawling, running or active play. As they grow, the challenge increases, but the goal remains the same: to stay active and healthy.

1. Children under 1 year old: They should be placed in the tummy position (crawling/creeping) for at least 30 minutes a day, which helps to strengthen the neck muscles and prevent the baby from getting into an awkward head position. In addition, they should be encouraged to move their head, legs and arms during their daily routines.
2. Children between 1 and 2 years old: Should do at least 3 hours of physical activity per day, of varying intensity, prioritizing outdoor exercise whenever possible. Examples include walking, running, rolling, swimming or playing in the water, creating movement circuits or playing with balls or similar toys.
3. Children between 3 and 4 years old: They should do at least 3 hours of physical activity per day, with at least 1 hour of moderate intensity activity. In addition to the activities mentioned above, they can participate in walking, running, jumping, playing games such as hide-and-seek, riding a bike or throwing and catching objects.
4. Children and adolescents aged 5 to 18 years: They should be encouraged to maintain at least 3 hours of daily physical activity, with at least 1 hour of moderate to intense activity. In addition, they should perform muscle-strengthening activities at least 3 days a week. These may include individual or team sports, such as football, handball, basketball, volleyball, tennis, martial arts, dance or swimming.

Why is Water an Ally?

Now, let’s dive into the specific benefits of water activities like swimming and water aerobics. Being in the water isn’t just fun; it’s an incredible source of health and well-being. Water provides a unique environment for exercise, strengthening muscles, bones, and the respiratory system. Plus, contact with water promotes a sense of calm and relaxation, helping to improve your quality of life .

Keeps Your Heart Healthier

A study carried out by the State University of New York demonstrated that one of the benefits of swimming, in people who practice it, is a lower heart rate and blood pressure levels than people who do not swim, as well as better blood circulation and fewer respiratory problems.

Promotes Increased Muscle Mass

A study that observed male swimmers found that, in eight weeks, there was a 23.8% increase in the triceps brachii (muscle located at the back of the arm).

Improves Posture and Flexibility

In addition to improving motor coordination, balance, flexibility, resistance and muscular strength, one of the benefits of swimming is also promoting good posture.

Improving Quality of Life

Swimming, water aerobics or simply playing in the water are activities that benefit both the body and mind. Water promotes the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormones, providing a feeling of relaxation and happiness. In addition, water activities help improve physical fitness, burning calories and toning muscles.

Respiratory Development

Water is also an ally in improving respiratory capacity. Swimming, in particular, promotes lung development and teaches effective breathing techniques. From an early age, children can benefit from contact with water, developing motor skills, strengthening muscles and gaining confidence.

Water Safety and Trust

Swimming for children is an activity that offers numerous benefits, from physical development to promoting confidence and safety in the water. By participating in water activities from an early age, children learn essential life skills, while enjoying moments of fun and learning.

Choose the Right Footwear for Swimming Lessons

Ensuring that children are well equipped for their swimming lessons is essential for a safe and fun experience in the pool. Our beach and pool shoes are designed with lightweight, quick-drying materials and non-slip soles, providing comfort, grip and protection against slipping around the pool. With our shoes , children can enjoy their water activities with confidence, full concentration on learning and, above all, worry-free fun.

So why not take your kids for a swim today? The benefits will last a lifetime.

Sources:

1. 5 benefits of swimming. CUF.

2. Benefits of physical activities in water. Pax Bahia.

3. Benefits of sports in childhood. Trofa Saúde Central Hospital.