What counts as bone-strengthening activity?
Bone-strengthening activities produce an impact or tension force on the bones that promotes bone growth and strength.
Examples of bone-strengthening activities suitable for children include:
- activities that require children to lift their body weight or to work against a resistance
- jumping and climbing activities, combined with the use of playground equipment and toys
- games such as hopscotch
- skipping with a rope
- walking
- running
- gymnastics
- football
- basketball
- tennis
- squash
- martial arts
Examples of bone-strengthening activities suitable for young people include:
- dance
- aerobics
- weight-training
- water-based activities
- running
- sports such as gymnastics, football, netball, hockey, badminton and tennis
- skipping with a rope
- martial arts
Children and young people should take part in activities that are appropriate for their age and stage of development.