What is physical activity and sports? Definition by Mandelbaum (2004).
Physical Activity : Physical activity is any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that result in an expenditure of energy.
Sport: Sport is an activity requiring physical ability, physical fitness, or technique and strategy in which usually, but not always, involves competition between two or more people.
A physically active lifestyle would be dominant forward from childhood to adulthood is a goal that parents should strive for. This goal has been rather elusive so far according to Pratt, Macera & Blanton (1999), they found that physical activity decreased with advancing grade in children and teenagers. But all hope is not lost as there is a further increase in the likelihood of physical activity becoming a lifelong endeavor, as scientists found that if the activity is made fun.
Which is recommended for my child? Sport or Physical activity?
Physical activity should be promoted in children / adolescents as a lifelong habit (Kohl III & Hobbs, 1998). A positive physical activity can constituent of games, that offer children a lot of action, social interaction and personal involvement.
On the other hand, Sport is of higher complexity, with structures, rules, authorities, physical exertion and other demands that would not offer what children want. Thus, sport may not promote intrinsic motivation and positive self-efficacy. Sports should not be introduced to children prior to physical activities. (Barrett, 2001). Figler & Whitaker (1991), mentioned that in sport, fun is hoped for, but is not a necessary ingredient of the activity.
What would be a suitable physical activity?
Motivating factors that children would love to have are fun, skill development and exercise in any physical activity. With these factors, the child's social, emotional and physical needs are met. Therefore, Barrett (2001) concluded that it would promote motivation from within the child, to return repeatedly to the activity.
Coakley 2004, pointed ot that physical activities that children engage in should not have an emphasis on performance rather they should focus more on pleasure and participation. We need to focus on pleasure and participation so that children will stay put. In addition, we should provide children with the necessary interventions designed to enhance and encourage their self-believe, social support, and fun. This will result in children maintaining and increasing physical activity participation levels (Weiss, 1993).
Parents influence important?
Parents have been shown to be powerful influences on their children's physical activity patterns through activity. This is evident especially through modeling and reinforcement behaviors (Stucky-Ropp & DiLorenzo, 1993). An example would be, a child's interest and participation in physical activity is reinforced and encouraged through verbal and nonverbal means by their parents. Parents who do enjoy their own physical activity also convey the same message to their children. (Weiss, 2000).
So the next time you go for an exercise regime or physical activity, don't whine, say "Give it to me!" or "Let's go together kids!".
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The Secret to your Children's Lifelong Participation in Physical Activity and Sports
