With schools closed for more than a year and children confined to their houses, the coronavirus pandemic has immensely affected the physical health of children, highlights a survey. It shows that 51% of the children in Delhi have an unhealthy Body Mass Index. The precentage of children having unhealthy BMI was more only in Bengaluru and Chennai. The findings are part of the 11th annual health survey conducted by sportz village schools, which also highlights that compared to the previous survey, the unhealthy BMI percentage for children in Delhi has increased. As per the last year's survey 50% of the children in Delhi were having unhealthy BMI. The nationwide survey covered children in age group 7 to 17 tears from 364 schools across 250 cities and towns. It looked at the state of the health of children on fitness parameters such as BMI aerobic capacity, strength flexibility, upper body strength and lower body strength. At the national level, the survey reveals that 1 in 2 children do not have healthy BMI. Moreover, the percentage of children having healthy levels of aerobic capacity and core strength during this period dropped drastically by 33% and 10% respectively. Aerobic capacity is the ability of the heart and lungs to get oxygen to the muscles, while core strength is the strength of the muscles of the torso, which helps determine posture. In Delhi 9 in 10 children were found unhealthy in terms of aerobic capacity, while in terms of core strength 2 in 5 children were found to be unhealthy. However, they did not fare well on aerobic capacity and lower body strength parameters. Although this is a cause for concern, we know how to combat this issue. Structured play that is inclusive and age appropriate directly impacts several health parameters. School leaders can help address the key challenge through the inclusion of adequate structured sports or physical education.
