Physical Activity and Overall Development of the Child and Adolescent Population. Benefits and Recommendations

Abstract

The regular practice of physical activity in childhood and adolescence is a necessary and obligatory habit as it constitutes an essential factor in the overall development of both boys and girls. The benefits provided by physical activity at these ages transcend the physical environment, positively affecting cognitive, psychological, and social dimensions. In addition, these benefits continue into adulthood in the form of disease prevention and maintenance of healthy habits. At present, there are minimum recommendations available for physical activity, which are established according to the age of the boys and girls, and whether they are able to walk. Compliance with the minimum physical activity recommendations is very low in the child and adolescent population in Spain, which constitutes a major public health problem.