Final answer:
Scientific evidence and the Department of Health and Human Services emphasize the importance of regular exercise for children and adults, recommending at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity for young people to maintain health and prevent chronic diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to scientific evidence, young people need exercise just as much as adults to stay healthy. It's tempting to think that kids get enough exercise just by playing with friends. But the Department of Health and Human Services says that parents need to ensure that their children get 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise every day. The 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, issued by the HHS, provide evidence-based guidelines for appropriate physical activity levels. This includes a recommendation that adults do at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, with an emphasis on spreading this activity throughout the week and combining it with muscle-strengthening activities.
The benefits of regular exercise are numerous, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and Type 2 diabetes, as well as improving cardiovascular and muscular fitness, bone density, cognitive function, and aiding in weight maintenance. Even household chores can be viewed as a form of physical exercise that contributes to overall health. Therefore, it is vital that both adults and children adhere to these recommended guidelines to promote long-term health and well-being.