Kids in India Need to Seriously Start Moving

As a parent, you want the best for your child’s health and future. But in today’s world of digital entertainment, busy schedules, and less outdoor play, getting kids to move their bodies can feel like a challenge. Sadly, physical inactivity is becoming a serious concern for kids across India.

So, why should we care about encouraging movement? The answer is simple: active kids are healthier, happier, and more successful in life. It’s time we give our children the push they need to put down the screens, step outside, and start moving.

Why Physical Activity is Crucial for Kids’ Health

The importance of physical activity in childhood cannot be overstated. Inactive children are at a higher risk of developing a number of health issues, from obesity and diabetes to poor mental health.

When kids move their bodies, whether it’s through playing sports, running around with friends, or even taking a brisk walk, they’re doing more than just burning calories. Physical activity improves muscle development, bone health, and heart function. It helps to build coordination, balance, and strength, all of which are crucial as children grow.

But the benefits don’t end with physical health. Regular exercise releases endorphins—those feel-good hormones that boost mood and reduce anxiety. So, by encouraging kids to stay active, we’re not just helping them grow stronger physically; we’re also helping them grow emotionally and mentally.

The Impact of a Sedentary Lifestyle in India

In India, the shift towards more sedentary lifestyles has been noticeable in the past decade. With increased screen time, less outdoor play, and the rise of fast food and processed snacks, kids aren’t getting the activity they need. In cities, children spend long hours in school, followed by hours of homework and screen time.

Unfortunately, this sedentary lifestyle is contributing to a sharp increase in childhood obesity, diabetes, and other health issues that were once seen mostly in adults. According to the World Health Organization, India is among the countries facing an increasing burden of lifestyle diseases. The lack of physical activity among children plays a significant role in this troubling trend.

How Much Movement Do Kids Really Need?

The key to fighting this problem is regular physical activity. Experts recommend that children between the ages of 5 and 17 get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. While this is an ideal target, the truth is, many kids are not meeting it, and that’s okay. Starting with small bursts of movement is a great way to build up.

Encouraging small boosts of 10 minutes—whether it’s a game of jumping jacks, skipping, or hopping around—can be an easy and fun starting point. These short bursts of activity, spread throughout the day, can add up and still provide health benefits. The goal is to get kids to enjoy moving their bodies, not see it as a chore. Whether it’s running around with friends, playing sports like cricket or football, or simply going for a walk after dinner, every bit of movement counts.

Encouraging Active Play at Home and School

Parents and schools have a significant role to play in fostering a love of movement. At home, we can encourage our kids to be active by:

• Setting a routine for outdoor play: Designate specific times for outdoor activities like a game of tag, a family walk, or a game of catch.

• Limiting screen time: Set clear boundaries on TV and gaming time, encouraging kids to engage in more physically active play.

• Being a role model: Kids are more likely to be active if they see their parents and caregivers prioritising physical activity too.

In schools, physical education classes and extracurricular activities like dance, sports, and yoga can help instil the value of movement. Schools can also create more opportunities for kids to be active by including daily short breaks for stretching or simple exercises.

The Role of Nutrition in Active Lifestyles

When kids are active, they need the right fuel to keep their energy levels high. Nutrition plays a key role in supporting physical activity and overall health. Providing kids with whole-grain bread or fibre-rich snacks can give them the energy they need to stay active. Whole grains, packed with fibre, complex carbohydrates, and essential nutrients, help maintain energy levels without causing crashes, keeping them active and alert throughout the day.

Taking Action: A Call for Change

If we want our kids to grow up healthy, happy, and strong, it’s crucial that we prioritise physical activity in their daily lives. It’s not enough to just rely on the school system or extracurricular activities; as parents and caregivers, we need to be active participants in encouraging movement.

From organizing family hikes and bike rides to making physical activity a fun part of the daily routine, there are plenty of ways to get kids moving. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s about making small, consistent changes that lead to a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Let’s set our kids up for success by giving them the tools they need for a lifetime of health. It starts with getting up, getting moving, and making activity a regular part of their day.