What is the recommended cardiovascular activity for elementary aged children?

The recommended cardiovascular activity for elementary-aged children is an accumulation of 60 minutes every day. This guideline aligns with national health recommendations that emphasize the importance of regular physical activity for children to support their overall health, development, and well-being.

The focus on accumulating 60 minutes allows for flexibility in how this activity is achieved throughout the day. Children can break this activity into shorter bursts: for example, they might play outside for 20 minutes at recess, engage in a sports practice for another 20 minutes, and then enjoy a family walk in the evening to reach the full 60 minutes.

This approach is particularly beneficial because it not only fosters enjoyment and engagement in physical activity but also accommodates the busy schedules of children, making it more achievable. Additionally, varying the types of activities can help maintain their interest and enthusiasm for physical exercise, promoting lifelong healthy habits.