"The need for kids to be active
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/fitness/The-need-for-kids-to-be-active/articleshow/18332633.cms
The need for kids to be active
(Thinkstock photos/Getty Im
A
new child-friendly workout, Zumbatomics, which combines dance and game
activities, has been creating waves all over the world. We ask Dr. Ann
Simi John, child psychologist, Parentune if classes like these will help
in the holistic well-being of young children.
Do you think there is a need for such workout classes today for children?
We live in a fast-paced world. In an attempt to become complete personalities, we put immense stress on our children. Academic pressures and peer pressures to perform can take a toll on their growing minds. Such classes give children an opportunity to use their bodies to express, widen their perspectives and imagination and foster creativity resulting in decreased stress and increased self efficacy.
Do you think that a fitness trend especially for children will help fight against childhood obesity, which is a growing trend in India?
Parents today are worried about obesity in children and we have observed this to be a growing trend especially among urban set-ups. Sedentary lifestyles, instant high caloric junk food and poor play routines is a perfect disastrous recipe for obesity and hormonal disturbances in children. Psychological effects of obesity among others include poor self- esteem, poor self-image, and in some cases, disturbances in mood and depression. Movement and dance therapy studies reveal that use of body movements has positive effects by reducing obesity, increased self- esteem. Zumbatomics may perhaps be a catalyst to a much needed intervention.
How do you think it can help boost confidence among kids?
Exercise with moderate intensity is crucial for a child's overall development. Psychologically, this helps children learn effective problem solving strategies, improves mood, creates a healthy sports spirit and boosts confidence which is crucial in the development of an overall personality.
Also, since kids nowadays hardly play outdoors, do you think that a Zumbatomics class will help them to maintain their fitness levels?
Yes, it does improve fitness levels. Exercising is crucial in protecting a child from obesity and hormonal disturbances. For a child today, perhaps, play also means playing computer games, Playstation or X- box. Our urban lifestyles provide fewer opportunities to play outdoors or use body movements. A growing trend like this can make changes in our lifestyles leading to better physical and psychological health.
Finally, do you think it's a trend which parents and kids will love?
Parents and children, alike, should be able to enjoy a fun activity such as this, especially when it has positive impact physically and psychologically. There may be a merit in parents and children doing some of this together, so as to role model a healthy lifestyle for their children."
Do you think there is a need for such workout classes today for children?
We live in a fast-paced world. In an attempt to become complete personalities, we put immense stress on our children. Academic pressures and peer pressures to perform can take a toll on their growing minds. Such classes give children an opportunity to use their bodies to express, widen their perspectives and imagination and foster creativity resulting in decreased stress and increased self efficacy.
Do you think that a fitness trend especially for children will help fight against childhood obesity, which is a growing trend in India?
Parents today are worried about obesity in children and we have observed this to be a growing trend especially among urban set-ups. Sedentary lifestyles, instant high caloric junk food and poor play routines is a perfect disastrous recipe for obesity and hormonal disturbances in children. Psychological effects of obesity among others include poor self- esteem, poor self-image, and in some cases, disturbances in mood and depression. Movement and dance therapy studies reveal that use of body movements has positive effects by reducing obesity, increased self- esteem. Zumbatomics may perhaps be a catalyst to a much needed intervention.
How do you think it can help boost confidence among kids?
Exercise with moderate intensity is crucial for a child's overall development. Psychologically, this helps children learn effective problem solving strategies, improves mood, creates a healthy sports spirit and boosts confidence which is crucial in the development of an overall personality.
Also, since kids nowadays hardly play outdoors, do you think that a Zumbatomics class will help them to maintain their fitness levels?
Yes, it does improve fitness levels. Exercising is crucial in protecting a child from obesity and hormonal disturbances. For a child today, perhaps, play also means playing computer games, Playstation or X- box. Our urban lifestyles provide fewer opportunities to play outdoors or use body movements. A growing trend like this can make changes in our lifestyles leading to better physical and psychological health.
Finally, do you think it's a trend which parents and kids will love?
Parents and children, alike, should be able to enjoy a fun activity such as this, especially when it has positive impact physically and psychologically. There may be a merit in parents and children doing some of this together, so as to role model a healthy lifestyle for their children."
