How Physical Activity and Mental Health Are Connected

The decline in Physical activity

Of the American youth aged 12-21 almost half are not vigorously active regularly (CDC, 1999). Since we as a society have become more sedentary children are losing out on all the benefits physical activity brings. It seems as the older we get the more sedentary we get as participation in any type of physical activity declines significantly as children age (CDC, 1999).

Benefits of physical activity

• Increases academic performance

• reduces the risk of depression

• improves muscular fitness

• improves heart and lung health

• increases bone strength

• helps maintain a healthy weight

(CDC, 2022)

Physical activity on mental health

In a study, it was found that increased levels of physical activity had major effects on reducing depression, anxiety, psychological distress, and emotional disturbance in kids (Ahn & Fedewa, 2011).