In a world where screens are king, the physical fitness of our children and adolescents is rapidly becoming a serious concern. According to the World Health Organization, over 80% of adolescents worldwide aren’t getting the recommended amount of physical activity. This isn’t just a statistic—it's a wake-up call. 

We’re seeing kids who are less active, more sedentary, and, ultimately, at risk of long-term health issues. It's time we address the impact of this shift, and take action. Whether it’s schools, parents, or community programs, everyone has a role to play in getting our kids moving again. The question is: are we ready to act and improve our kids physical fitness?

How schools are addressing the issue

Schools are increasingly recognising the need to prioritise physical activity. Many have introduced more structured fitness programs, from PE classes that focus on both strength and cardiovascular health, to after-school clubs that promote team sports. 

But it's not just about more exercise—it’s about fostering a culture of movement. Schools are introducing wellness initiatives that encourage healthier lifestyles beyond just gym class, like mindfulness activities or healthy eating education. These small changes can make a huge difference when it comes to kids developing lifelong habits.

The role of parents and communities

Parents and local communities play a vital role in shaping a child’s attitude towards fitness. Here are a few ways we can help:

• Encourage outdoor play, even if it’s as simple as a walk to the park

• Limit screen time to create more space for physical activities

• Sign kids up for sports or recreational activities that they enjoy

• Lead by example—showing the benefits of staying active in our daily lives

• Create an environment that supports and celebrates fitness, both at home and in community settings

Final thoughts: Why is there a growing concern over the physical fitness of children and adolescents?

Together, with the right support from schools, parents, and communities, by incorporating these steps into daily routines, we can start shifting the trend of inactivity towards a healthier, more active future.

Please note that any advice shared here is general in nature, and we recommend checking in with a professional in regard to your child’s needs.

For more tips and tricks on topics like this deep dive into kids physical fitness, feel free to contact us or refer to our Dewey Does blog. 

Don’t forget, if your whole family wants to look amazing while you’re out there living your best life, we make a whole range of inspiring novelty tees that can add a touch of fun and color. Speaking of fun and color, be sure to check out our super cool interactive logo!

While you’re here, we’d really love to hear what you have to say about kids physical fitness. Drop us your two cents below.

Hi, Team Does. I get all my sports news and updates from my friend Tommy Ommy, host of Straight from the Basement Sports Podcast. Be sure to follow him wherever you get your podcasts, and check out his YouTube channel for sports news and conversations - Dewey.

Fighting childhood obesity since 2006