Let’s face it, getting kids off screens and into sneakers isn’t always easy. Between homework, gaming, and busy family life, it can be tough to squeeze in movement. But here’s the thing: kids need to move a lot more than we often realise.
Experts recommend that school-aged children engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. But in reality, many young children are falling short.
The good news? That hour doesn’t have to be all at once or involve structured sport. It can be anything from backyard play to riding a scooter or dancing in the lounge room.
In this blog, we’ll explore why physical activity is important for kids. Learn how sitting too much can affect their wellbeing, and practical ways to help your child move more every day.
Trying to encourage them to be more active? Sometimes, a fun new outfit made just for play, like our kids' activewear, can spark that extra bit of motivation.
The Health Benefits of Physical Activity for Children
Regular exercise and movement help your child grow stronger, feel happier, and stay healthier long term. Just one hour of active play or exercise each day can lead to:
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Build strong bones and muscles
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Improved balance and coordination
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Better sleep and mood
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Healthy weight management
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Higher self-esteem and social skills
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Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and other chronic illnesses
Exercise doesn't have to mean organised sport. Running and jumping around the park, dancing in the living room, or climbing on playground equipment all count as physical activity for children.
Sedentary Behaviour Is on the Rise
Today’s kids spend hours each day sitting or lying while using screens, doing schoolwork, or relaxing. Known as sedentary behaviour, this habit can affect everything from posture and muscle tone to mental health and sleep quality.
Balancing this with movement is essential. For younger kids, even 30 minutes of tummy time or unstructured play helps build foundations for lifelong activity.
How Much Physical Activity Do Kids Need by Age?
According to the Australian Government's Physical Activity Guidelines, children aged 5–17 years should engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. But less than 1 in 4 kids actually meet this target
Here’s a quick breakdown from the Department of Health guidelines:
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Infants (0–1 year): Multiple sessions of interactive floor-based play, including 30+ minutes of tummy time daily
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Toddlers (1–2 years): At least 3 hours of active play spread across the day
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Preschoolers (3–5 years): Minimum 3 hours of activity, with at least 1 hour being energetic
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Children (5–17 years): At least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity each day, plus activities to strengthen bones and muscles at least 3 times per week
What Counts as Physical Activity for Kids?
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Riding a bike or scooter
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Playing tag, hopscotch, or skipping rope
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School PE or sport teams
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Swimming, gymnastics, or martial arts
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Dancing, climbing, hiking, or monkey bars
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Chores like gardening or walking the dog
Even small moments of movement throughout the day can contribute to the recommended amount of hours.
If you’re looking for inspiration, check out these outdoor adventures that help kids stay active while having fun.
How the Right Kids' Activewear Makes a Difference
Supportive gear encourages kids to move freely, confidently, and safely.
At Obsessed Gymwear, we design kids' activewear that moves with them, whether they’re leaping into dance class, climbing trees, or warming up for aerobics. Our gear is:
✓ High-quality, soft and breathable
✓ Stretchy for full range of motion
✓ Fun, bold and made to last
✓ Suitable for school, sport, and play
Children who feel comfortable in their clothes are more likely to move and enjoy doing it.
How Parents Can Help Build Healthy Habits
Encouraging physical activity doesn’t have to be hard. Here’s how parents can help:
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Be a role model, join in the fun
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Make active play part of daily life
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Praise effort, not performance
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Let kids pick activities they enjoy
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Choose versatile, comfy activewear for everyday use
Making activity fun, accessible, and pressure-free builds confidence—and helps kids enjoy the lifelong benefits of physical activity every day.
Shop Kids Activewear Built for Play & Performance
Looking for kids' activewear that supports movement from morning to bedtime?
At Obsessed Gymwear, our pieces are designed for kids who love to move. From school sport to weekend dance comps, we’ve got them covered.
Visit our store to explore the full activewear range! Whether for kids, teens, adults, women or men, we’ve got comfortable, durable gear made to move.