Fit to Play: Exercise Is Key for Preventing Childhood Obesity

The latest statistics indicate that one in three children in the U.S. is overweight or obese.

While a healthy diet is essential for preventing childhood obesity, exercise is also extremely important.

According to Dr. Corinn Cross, member of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), an hour of physical activity is the goal. That hour doesn't have to be continuous, either, but 60 minutes should be the minimum.

Unfortunately, kids have long days, even kids in kindergarten. And, screen time has become a priority over physical activity.

Kids who have more screen time are more overweight and obese; it's a proven fact. Dr. Cross says the AAP recommends two hours of screen time (or less).

The key is that parents have to be adamant about enforcing those rules.

Dr. Cross is the co-founder of the Fit to Play curriculum, which teaches healthy choices in terms of both food and exercise, for parents and kids. 

One thing that should NOT be happening, says Dr. Cross, is that kids who get into trouble should not be punished by having recess taken away. They need that physical outlet.

Another way parents can encourage activity is by enrolling kids in activities after school, whether it's a dance program or a team sport.

Finally, parents need to model good behavior and do activities together. Take a walk after dinner as a family, walk to the store instead of driving, go on a family hike or bike ride on the weekends... whatever activities you can do together, the better.

Listen in as Dr. Cross joins Dr. Susanne to share more about why physical activity is so important in preventing childhood obesity.