Research Behind the RAAPS Questions (Question #3)

RAAPS Question #3 Physical Activity

Studies indicate that children and adolescents are much less physically active than they were 20 years ago. Statistics report 25% of surveyed high school students do not participate in any kind of physical activity (60 minutes or more) and more than 61% of youth ages 9-14 do not participate in any organized physical activity outside of school.  It has also been found that there is an association between the number of hours that youth watch TV/play video games and weight gain. On an average school day, 38% of students have three or more hours per day of screen time. 

These statistics are particularly concerning since overweight teens often grown into overweight adults.  Help teens find ways to be physically active that are also fun!  Reducing screen time and increasing physical activity yields many health benefits in addition to reducing the risk of developing obesity such as building and maintaining healthy bones and muscles, reducing chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, reducing feelings of depression and anxiety, and promoting psychological well-being.