By Sam Bennison

To Your Health

UNBC professor looking into why northern kids aren’t getting enough exercise

May 21, 2024 | 5:00 AM

PRINCE GEORGE—A professor at UNBC has begun a youth lead research project into how to improve physical activity in northern B.C. This after the ParticipACTION Children & Youth Report Card says the Canadian kids score a D+ overall.

Physical activity is important in a child’s development as it’s the foundation for their future health. Beyond that it also allows children to develop important social bonds with their peers. Dr. Taru Manyanga explains that exercise “creates opportunities for people to be communal and sense of belonging.”

So far, they have only spoken to youth in Prince George but have found that kids want to be part of the solution. Dr. Manyanga says that the participants spoke about not having the time, trading screen time for outside play, and that sports are a big monetary investment.

Public Safety

RCMP and ICBC remind public of the dangers of storing items in your vehicle

5m ago

Cougars

Ravensbergen prepares for CHL USA Prospect Challenge

12h ago

CNC plans for disruptions

13h ago

In terms of screen time, Dr. Manyanga adds that while getting kids off of their phones and outside is important, we should also look at how we can combine screen time and exercise.

The ParticipACTION survey also recommends that we could improve physical activity by improving access either through active transportation, like biking, or sports facilities.

Local news. Delivered. Free. Subscribe to our daily news wrap and get our top local stories delivered to your inbox every evening.

***

Email: sam.bennison@pattisonmedia.com