Physical Benefits
Scientific Evidence
List of Benefits
HELPFUL
EXERCISES/
STRETCHES
Researchers William and Hill state that exercise improves cognitive tests in children. Researchers gathered primary school students and ultimately found that students who exercised did better on their cognitive function tests than those who didn't do physical activity (2011).
Based on a meta-analysis published in 2011, 59 studies stated in the literature all provided a great correlation on how there is in fact a significant positive effect on children's cognitive functions. In fact, aerobic fitness is found to being the most effective.
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Enhances emotional well-being
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Strengthens the heart, lungs, and bones
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Keeps arteries and veins clear
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Controls weight
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Improves cognitive function
Here are a few exercises/stretches provided by NASM (2014):
Squat Jumps:
1. Stand shoulder feet width apart
2. Jump up
3. Lower your body into a squat
Hamstring Stretch:
1. Sit on the floor
2. Lay both feet out in front
3. Lean towards your toes and
stay for about 15-30 seconds
Butterfly Stretch:
1. Sit on the floor
2. Soles of your feet together
3. Hold ankles and slowly lower
your body towards the ground
For more information about NASM please visit their website below.
References
In Clark, M., In Sutton, B. G., In Lucett, S., & National Academy of Sports Medicine,. (2014). NASM essentials of personal fitness training.