Exercising outdoors with friends better for kids' health
19/01/2011 Children who take part in outdoor play activities with their best friend are generally more physically active than those exercising outdoors alone, according to new research.
A study by academics at the University of Bristol revealed that boys who take part in games with their sporty pals were more likely to feel the health benefits of outdoor play themselves.
Similarly, it was found that girls who frequently take part in outdoor play activities with their friends achieved greater levels of exercise and fitness than those who spent more time indoors.
"Our findings show that … encouraging friends to be active together, particularly outside of school, may bring about important changes to children's physical activity," commented Dr Russ Jago, who led the research.
Earlier this week, youth worker Jan Breider told the Sheffield Telegraph that more youngsters should be taught the benefits of outdoor play, with parents urged to promote exercising outdoors.
A study by academics at the University of Bristol revealed that boys who take part in games with their sporty pals were more likely to feel the health benefits of outdoor play themselves.
Similarly, it was found that girls who frequently take part in outdoor play activities with their friends achieved greater levels of exercise and fitness than those who spent more time indoors.
"Our findings show that … encouraging friends to be active together, particularly outside of school, may bring about important changes to children's physical activity," commented Dr Russ Jago, who led the research.
Earlier this week, youth worker Jan Breider told the Sheffield Telegraph that more youngsters should be taught the benefits of outdoor play, with parents urged to promote exercising outdoors.
