Childhood fitness: what is happening? What needs to be done?

BACKGROUND: There is some controversy as to the fitness levels of U.S. school-age youth. Some experts claim that U.S. youth are fit. Others feel that there has been a decline, despite a recent adult fitness boom.
METHODS: The purpose of this article is to examine the research conducted on the cardiovascular endurance and body composition levels of U.S. youth. Research studies noting the activity patterns of youth outside and during physical education are presented. The frequency and duration of physical education requirements are also reviewed. The effects of these patterns and requirements on cardiovascular endurance and body composition are presented.
RESULTS: U.S. youth do not engage in physical activity, within our outside physical education, sufficient to develop cardiovascular endurance. Our youth are, therefore, at risk of developing a myriad of diseases associated with sedentary lifestyles.
CONCLUSIONS: Exercise is known to have a prophylactic effect on disease, death, and disability. Young people must be instructed and encouraged to be involved in lifetime fitness activities if we are going to control health care costs, reduce disease incidence, and improve the overall quality of life of our citizens.