Tips for keeping kids active

As Yuma’s thermometer continues to inch toward milder temperatures, now is the prime time for families to head outdoors for some fresh air and exercise. Whether it’s a leisurely swim, a bike or scooter ride, some backyard baseball, shooting hoops or a friendly game of football, according to local pediatrician Dr. Alexander Podolsky, opting for outside time is a great way to blend physical, mental and emotional wellness.

“There are tons of benefits of going outside,” said Dr. Podolsky. “The first and foremost being physically. One of the big things I try to emphasize to my patients is that it’s important to build healthy habits early on. One of the biggest health challenges we face in the country is obesity and that’s classically been thought of as an adult problem, but we now know that it’s one of the biggest rising health crises for children in the country. I try to urge kids to do anything they can to get outside and get moving and grooving.”

Even if it’s something as simple as a sunset stroll around the neighborhood with the entire clan, Dr. Podolsky said that’s enough to get the heart rates pumping.

“It’s really about getting up out of the seat, getting the blood flowing, stepping away from the computer,” he said. “All of this affords cardiovascular benefits, and there are clear benefits to the respiratory system with physical activity – building your heart and lungs.”

According to the doctor, multiple studies indicate that physical activity also links to positive mental health and is one of the most effective non-medication treatments for anxiety and depression.

“Getting up from the computer (for a few minutes) can certainly help clear your mind,” he said. “A lot of students are going to be facing challenges in distance learning, like not being near their friends and not being in direct contact with their teachers. It’s just one of those easy things to do to hit the reset button on your brain when you’re struggling with school work and give you a good morale boost.”