Outdoor exercise beneficial for kids physical and mental health

(MNN)-Getting kids outside this summer has physical benefits but can also contribute to their mental health.

“Exercise is associated with mood improvement and emotional regulation, and a reduction in anxiety which is becoming an increasing problem for our younger ages. It can also help to improve sleep and create a more sound relationship with sleep hygiene. It can also improve opportunity for kids to engage with their peers, so improving kind of social skills and emotional regulation,” says University of Minnesota School of Kinesiology lecturer Katie Schuver.

Schuver says children and teens ages 6 to 17 should get at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily.