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During Covid-19, children were forced to sit at home for online studies exposing them to increasing screen time; reduced physical activity owing to lack of access to safe play areas; and structured physical fitness regimen in schools. Obviously, their fitness level dropped and continues to do so even today.

Studies reveal that only one in three children has the required stamina. The study was done across 333 schools in 112 cities evaluating over 1.4 lakh children.

Fitness is yet to reach the pre-covid day standard. The other issues are aerobic fitness; poor cardiovascular endurance and weak muscle strength. Only 34% of children meet aerobic (cardiovascular) fitness benchmarks. Disparities were found based on location and administration of schools such as government-run; private; rural and urban; the causes being access to sports facilities, training, and awareness. 

Lower body strength needs boosting specially in balance, mobility and overall toning. Proper diet is required for overall health. 

Low aerobic fitness leads to poor heart health. Children may find endurance activities such as running, sports, or even sustained physical play difficult. Lack of exercises leads to childhood obesity, low energy, focus and mental fitness. 

Physical Activities Need of the hour:

Children should be encouraged at home and institutions to:

• Exercise, initially for a short time and increase it to one hour gradually.
• Set up structured sports and physical education classes in schools 
• To organise outdoor games to discourage screen use 
• Join children in endurance activities (running, cycling, swimming) 
• Set up common and safe sports infrastructure across schools and residential areas
• Have proper diet, nutritious food depending on the body constitution and requirements
• Expose themselves to sunlight for vitamin D.

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Fitness Study: Only One in Three School children up to the Mark. Physical fitness need of the hour