Healthy Living: Making up for missing physical education classes

Doctors share how to help your student stay healthy even without P.E. classes.

Distance learning can be hard on the mind and the body... kezi 9 news anchor chris lueneburg shows us that many students' health is taking a hit with declining exercise... in today's healthy living, sponsored by oregon medical group.

"jumping jacks, pushups and dodgeball... no matter what memories you have of pe class in school, it probably got you sweating.

But months into distance learning, doctors are noting troubling weight gain in students who aren't getting that exercise."

Oregon medical group pediatrician dr. craig lash has noticed the trend.

"we've noticed anywhere from just a few pounds weight gain compared to what they should be according to their growth charts, to moderate wieght gain."

In some cases hes seen as much as a 10 percent weight gain-- and he thinks he knows why.

"i do think this is due to lack of physical education classes."

The consequences of those extra pounds can last beyond childhood- in things like diabetes or high blood pressure.

But if you notice the signs in your child, you can put it to a stop-- by getting your student in motion.

"if they start becoming a bit withdrawn.

They are feeling fatigued.

They can't do as much as they used to do."

Dr. lash reccommends at least 30 minutes of exercise a day... family walks, bike rides and runs can do the trick.

"sit ups, push ups, jumping jacks, and those kind of physical education kalesthetics."

He says a combination of healthy eating and exercise can be a boon for mental health- espeically in a time when students are lacking interaction with thier friends.

"as for younger students-- dr. lash says play ususally amounts to much of their exercise.

The playground can be a good place to visit-- as long as you try to go during off-hours and practice good hand hygeine.

In the studio, chris lueneburg kezi 9