Exercise improves self-esteem in children and young people.

Exercise may build self-esteem among adolescents At least 10 per cent of children and young people suffer from behavioural and psychological problems. The figures indicate that approximately one child in twenty needs psychological treatment. A number of studies suggest that physical activity has positive effects on depression, anxiety and behavioural problems in children and young people. In order to determine whether the beneficial effect of exercise can be linked directly with self-perception in children and young people researchers have reviewed the best studies in the field. On the basis of 23 international trials they sought to determine whether exercise has beneficial effects on self-esteem in children and young people aged 3-20.