Childhood play can help combat obesity, says the BHF

In response to a study by the BMJ on poor coordination in childhood and the link to adult obesity, Ellen Mason, Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation commented:

“We know that obesity is a complex problem, and that psychological and socio-economic factors complicate the issue for some people.

“Making sure that all children can enjoy physical activity, regardless of their coordination skills, is critical in reducing the risk of becoming overweight as they grow up.

“The BHF believes unstructured, free play should be a part of every childhood experience.  We want government and schools to dedicate a similar level of resource to encouraging free play at school as they do to competitive sports.”

(Source: British Heart Foundation: September 2008)