It has proven from multiple sources that engaging in physical activity is beneficial to the human body in many ways. However, how early in life should someone begin to engage in physical activity?  Dr. Jaci Van Heest,  an associate professor at the University of Connecticut Neag School of Education, created a program for elementary school students known as Physical Activity at a Lifetime Scale. Dr. Van Heist emphasizes through her program that physical activity is an important factor in a child’s life, which is exerted through playing.  She wanted young children to play intensely and with joy. She also made a miraculous connection between playing and the brain. An elementary school student in the program described to Dr. Van Heest that he aced a test because of his improved physical activity. That was the moment when Dr. Van Heest asked to herself is there a connection between physical activity and doing well in school. Through brain scans, it showed that the neurons in the prefrontal cortex were impacted from playing. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for complex behaviors,such as planning and contributes to personality development. In other brain scans, it was proven that there is much more brain activity while someone is walking than sitting, which can be beneficial to someone’s health. Dr. Van Heest concludes by saying that physical activity is not only a great tool for improving someone’s physical  health, but also their emotional activity. Dr. Van Heest will be hosting a Q & A session through Twitter on February 15th at 1pm to 2 pm.

Watch Dr. Van Heest’s whole video

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