18.

Write in details about the physical and physiological advantages of physical exercise during the childhood stages. Explain any Five.

There are various physical and physiological advantages of exercise for children which are described below:

1. Exercise Controls Weight: Regular exercise helps in controlling weight. In fact weight gain occurs when child takes more calories than the requirement of his body. The unused or excess calories are accumulated as fats in his body. In this way, he starts gaining weight which ultimately leads him towards overweight and obesity. Nowadays a lot of children not only in India but throughout the world are getting obese which is the root cause of various physiological problems. Regular exercise helps such children in burning excess calories. The more intense the activity or exercise, the more calories they burn. Regular exercise takes the fat away and lowers the excess weight. As a matter of fact, exercise is beneficial for children in preventing, controlling and maintaining weight.
2. Exercise Strengthens Bones: Exercise builds strong bones. As a matter of fact, exercise increases bone density which helps in preventing osteoporosis. If regular exercise is not performed, the bones usually lose their density, become weak, fragile and porous. Hence, exercise is beneficial for strengthening the bones.
3. Exercise Strengthens the Lungs: Exercise is beneficial for children because it enhances the lungs, capacity and their efficiency in inhalation and exhalation. It increases the size of lungs. Tidal air capacity and vital air capacity are increased. Even unused alveolus become active. So, it can be said that lungs are strengthened and becomes capable to perform various activities for a longer duration.
4. Promotes Changes in the Brain Structure: Exercise changes the brain structure and functions in infants and young children which are beneficial for them. As a matter of fact, sensory stimulation through exercise is essential for maximum growth and development of the young nervous system. It also stimulates various chemicals which help the children to feel happier and more relaxed.
5. Exercise Strengthens the Heart: Exercise improves the performance and efficiency of heart. The heart responds to exercise by becoming stronger and more efficient. Exercise not only makes the muscles of heart stronger but increases its size also. Exercise helps in increasing stroke volume, cardiac output, blood volume and total haemoglobin which ultimately improves the function of heart.