Unlocking Active Lifestyles: Effective Strategies to Get Hong Kong Kids Moving More

Lately, Andy Lee, a 16-year-old student at Hong Kong International School, has found it easier to concentrate on his studies, sleep better, and keep a balanced schedule. He spends 30 to 45 minutes running each day and plays basketball at school. Through this active lifestyle, Andy has noticed significant changes.

“I feel like my grades have improved a lot since I started exercising regularly,” he shared. For Andy, daily workouts have become essential, helping both his health and academic performance.

Unfortunately, Andy’s habits are not common among kids his age in Hong Kong. A surprising study from the University of Hong Kong found that over 90% of children in the city don’t get the recommended 60 minutes of moderate to intense exercise each day. The World Health Organization advises that kids between five and 17 should not only get enough aerobic activity but also engage in muscle-strengthening activities three times a week.

This lack of physical activity is largely due to parents prioritizing academic tutorials over exercise, according to researchers. Andy pointed out how the competitive atmosphere at local schools contributes to this issue. “Many schools focus heavily on academics, leaving little time for workouts,” he explained. He believes it’s important for society to recognize that students need at least an hour of exercise daily for better health.

Personal trainer Ashleigh Martin agrees, noting that the statistic is alarming but not surprising. “Many young people feel pressured to excel academically,” she said. Instead of being active, they often spend their free time playing video games or browsing social media. This can lead to a cycle where they seek quick rewards from gaming and overlook the benefits of physical exercise.

Andy’s outlook shifted after he read about how exercise boosts brain productivity, helps with procrastination, and allows better time management. “That same day, I decided to go for a run,” he recalled. He’s experienced increased energy, easier sleep, and improved mental toughness from running, pushing himself to do something challenging even when he doesn’t feel like it. He believes this mindset is also helpful in school.

Ashleigh emphasized that exercise is key for physical health and developing focus, discipline, and leadership qualities. It can help manage aches and pains, strengthen joints, and improve sleep for adolescents.

If you’re considering becoming more active, starting small is crucial. Andy advises, “Just get started.” He believes that many individuals delay exercising, thinking they’ll do it later. The key is simply to begin. “You could either fall in love with the process or find a different approach,” he added.

Engaging in activities with friends and family can also make exercise more enjoyable. Whether taking a walk together or participating in community events, socializing while being active creates a fun experience. Additionally, you can turn daily activities into a workout. For example, instead of using the elevator, take the stairs and see how many flights you can manage.

Exercise is not just about staying fit; it’s an opportunity to explore your body’s capabilities. Ask yourself: “What can I do? How can I improve?” By fostering a curious mindset about physical activity, you can make your fitness journey rewarding.

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