To avoid a range of heart disease risk factors extending into adulthood, the government advises that children require 90 minutes of exercise daily. However, according to a new study from the Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, children may need even more activity than for the healthiest heart. The researchers recommendations are for all children, not just those who are overweight.The 9 and 15-year-old study participants physical activity levels were measured by the accelerometers they wore for four days. The most active children played and exercised for 1.5 to 2 hours per day, at a pace equal to walking 2.5 miles per hour -- these kids were the healthiest. Those who were the least active exhibited a cluster of heart disease risk factors, including high blood pressure, higher cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and higher body fat.
