Nutrition/Fitness content courtesy of USSoccer.com.

Soccer & the Fight Against Childhood Obesity

Exercise and fitness are major contributors to a child’s healthy lifestyle and a benefit of soccer.  By staying active children can take a stand against the numbers that show an increase in child obesity.  For these reasons, “fitness” is this week’s key message of Youth Soccer month, a celebration of soccer across America.
 
In a recent survey, 91 percent of US Youth Soccer parents desire physical activity for their children through youth soccer.   In 2003, The National Association for Sport and Physical Education reported that parents believe that an increase in school-based activity will decrease child obesity.  Parents are concerned that distractions like television and video games will limit their child’s physical activity.
 
Staying fit and fighting obesity are not limited to only physical activity, eating the right types and amounts of food also contribute to a healthy lifestyle.  The American Heart Association recommends that youth ages 9-13 have an intake of 1,600 calories daily for females, and 1,800 calories daily for males.  Calories should be adequate to support growth and activity of children.
 
In the hot summer months keeping children hydrated is a major factor.  Making sure children have plenty of fluids, like water or Gatorade, is important during the hot summer months.  Children should be allowed several water breaks during practice and games.  Learn simple steps to prevent heat stroke, and become aware of the signs of dehydration.

After an injury, children should take time off from physical activity to make sure they heal completely.  Keeping a healthy balance of training and playtime will keep the body in shape and help prevent injury.  Taking time for a good warm-up and cool-down is important for children to stay healthy and fit.

Recognizing the impact and importance the sport of soccer plays in the day-to-day lives of America’s families, US Youth Soccer, with 3.2 million members, the nation’s largest youth sports association, is spreading the fifth Youth Soccer Month- Celebrating Soccer in America, this September.