How Much Should a Kid Exercise Each Day?

Exercise is an essential component to overall fitness and health. Young children often naturally get enough exercise. However, as children get older they may spend more time doing sedentary activities such as watching TV or playing video games. It is important for parents to encourage kids to be physically active in order to instill good fitness habits that will last a lifetime.

Babies and Toddlers

• Children under the age of 4 do not need organized or scheduled exercise. However, they do need opportunities to be physically active. Play time outdoors or at parks will meet their exercise needs.

Ages 4 to 6

• Kids from age 4 to 6 need to exercise at least 30 minutes per day six days of the week. Exercise can consist of swimming, gymnastics, or throwing/catching a ball.

Ages 6 to 8

• Kids from age 6 to 8 also need 30 minutes of exercise on at least 6 days a week. This age is a good time to introduce kids to organized sports such as soccer and baseball.

Ages 9 to 13

• The National Association for Sports and Physical Education advises that kids at this age get at least one hour of continuous physical activity each day.

Ages 14 to 18

• Kids aged 14 to 18 should get between 30 and 60 minutes of exercise each day. This time is a good time to introduce activities such as weight training and yoga.