OVERVIEW

Recent research has indicated that children’s fitness levels in the UK are falling faster than anywhere else in the world. Global fitness levels in the past decade have fallen on average 4%; however, shocking statistics reveal the figure for the UK is 8%.
In a running test, the average 1998 10 year old would beat 95% of their peers today.
Although children are routinely monitored to combat obesity, no such assessment takes place for fitness levels. The two elements are inextricably linked, however in a lot of cases, fitness levels in the non obese are also a cause for concern, attributed to factors such as sedentary lifestyles.
The Childhood Health – Fit for the Future conference invites all professionals working with children to hear expert opinions as to how to improve the wellbeing of the next generation.
Evidence suggests that children are not consistently fulfilling the government’s recommended guidelines of one hour of moderate to vigorous exercise a day. Screen time is on the increase, with children on average spending a quarter of their day in front of a monitor, computer game or TV screen. This inevitably impacts on their cardiovascular capacities.
Tackling childhood obesity is not only a priority for the government, but a responsibility for society as a whole. Programmes such as Change4Life and MEND are addressing these issues, however more still needs to be done if the 2020 target to reduce the number of overweight and obese children to the level of 10 years ago is to be achieved.
The National Obesity Forum is calling for local councils to improve the quality and range of affordable sports facilities. And researchers from the Medical Research Council recommend that advice given by health professionals and agencies should incorporate high intensity activities to curb obesity in the young.
Childhood Health – Fit For the Future will highlight the current situation and reiterate concerns, with our expert speakers presenting research findings and possible solutions to this highly relevant topic. How the legacy of London2012 can influence future generations will be explored, and a panel debate will discuss how positive healthy living can be achieved.