Why you should use a trampoline in the fight against childhood obesity

By: Isla Campbell
Submitted: 2008-10-17 16:47:57
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The problem of childhood obesity in the UK is continuing to rise, with current figures showing that around one in four 11-15 year olds are obese. Although not a new issue, the associated health effects from being overweight are seriously impacting on the individuals concerned, as well as costing the country’s economy billions of pounds.

According to health officials, the biggest cause of obesity is an unhealthy diet coupled with an inadequate exercise regime. Nutrition experts also believe that the increased availability of high calorie foods - heavily promoted to children - as well as changes to family routines are contributing factors.

Not only is an obese child susceptible to developing a number of life-threatening illnesses, such as heart attacks, bowel cancer or high blood pressure, but being overweight can also affect their psychological state. Low self-esteem, isolation and depression are just a few of the side-effects.

Recommendations for combating obesity state that both the diet of the child and its level of exercise need to be addressed. It should be noted here that unless advised to do so by a medical expert, you should not place your child on a diet since this can affect growth. What is important, however, is providing balanced, nutritious foodstuffs.

When it comes to exercise, most children can be reluctant. Indeed, when faced with the option of playing computer games or heading outside into the cold, many choose the former option. This can be even more of an issue if your child is self-conscious about their appearance or is not very coordinated when it comes to physical activity.

This is where trampolining comes into play. Believed to be a great activity for children averse to sports, trampolining is effective since it is so easy to do and offers immediate success, thus boosting motivation and self-confidence. Not only that, but it is also said to aid academically, because it develops co-ordination and muscle control.

Additionally, NASA (the National Aeronautics and Space Administration) has published research starting that exercising on a trampoline provides the body with a better physical workout than going running, with ten minutes on a trampoline being equivalent to running one mile!

The associated health benefits in relation to trampolining are numerous. As well as being up to 68 per cent more effective than jogging, it is an excellent way to strengthen the heart and increase one’s metabolism; this in turn burns more calories. Trampolining has also been found to enhance digestion and fight fatigue.

Effective and safe to use, trampolining can be a brilliant way to introduce some exercise, and fun, into your child’s life. It’s not only children who can reap health benefits from the trampoline – from toddler to grandparent, the whole family can join in! And, with a range of different trampolines on the market, it is easy to find one suited to your space constraints and budget. So, what are you waiting for?

Isla Campbell writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

Article source: Expert Articles

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