Some of the many benefits of sport participation for children include:

• reduced risk of obesity

• increased cardiovascular fitness

• healthy growth of bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons

• improved coordination and balance

• a greater ability to physically relax and, therefore, avoid the complications of chronic muscular tension (such as headache or back ache)

• improved sleep

• mental health benefits, such as greater confidence

• improved social skills

• improved personal skills, including cooperation and leadership.

• Reducing inactivity may be more effective in achieving overall increases in energy levels in young children than putting the emphasis on increasing involvement in sporting activities. Taking steps to reduce children’s sedentary time is important.

Common sedentary activities that compete with physical activity include:

• homework

• computer games

• internet use

• television