Mentor/s
Mary Ignagni Jennifer McLaughlin
Participation Type
Paper Talk
Abstract
A child’s early experience and perceptions of physical activity will greatly impact their motivation levels and adherence to exercise into adulthood which will contribute to their physical and mental health in later life. Children are often introduced to exercise through gym class, participation in recreational sports, or regular outdoor activity. The functioning of a human brain has the ability to process experiences in adolescence, and these experiences impact subconscious thought and behavior in later life. The way a child perceives exercise can impact their motivational levels throughout their life regarding physical activity and the importance of staying active. Many factors contribute to this individualized motivation, such as hormonal levels, gender-related differences, and the potential experience with childhood obesity. As humans age, physical activity becomes essential for proper range of motion, stability, and overall physical health. In addition to the physical benefits of movement, physical activity is essential in the cognitive aging of an older individual, prolonging and preventing the effects of chronic mental diseases. Overall, it is essential to educate young children on the importance of movement in order to shape their motivation and positively impact the trajectory of the rest of their lives.
College and Major available
Exercise Science BS
Location
Digital Commons
Start Day/Time
5-5-2021 1:00 PM
End Day/Time
5-5-2021 4:00 PM
Prize Categories
Most Scholarly Impact or Potential, Most Creative, Most Meaningful
The Motivation for Movement
Digital Commons
A child’s early experience and perceptions of physical activity will greatly impact their motivation levels and adherence to exercise into adulthood which will contribute to their physical and mental health in later life. Children are often introduced to exercise through gym class, participation in recreational sports, or regular outdoor activity. The functioning of a human brain has the ability to process experiences in adolescence, and these experiences impact subconscious thought and behavior in later life. The way a child perceives exercise can impact their motivational levels throughout their life regarding physical activity and the importance of staying active. Many factors contribute to this individualized motivation, such as hormonal levels, gender-related differences, and the potential experience with childhood obesity. As humans age, physical activity becomes essential for proper range of motion, stability, and overall physical health. In addition to the physical benefits of movement, physical activity is essential in the cognitive aging of an older individual, prolonging and preventing the effects of chronic mental diseases. Overall, it is essential to educate young children on the importance of movement in order to shape their motivation and positively impact the trajectory of the rest of their lives.
Students' Information
Abigail Radwanski, Exercise Science, Honors Student, Class of 2022