As parents, we often think about the immediate benefits of exercise for our children.
More energy.
Better fitness.
Improved confidence.
A good night's sleep.
What we don't often consider is that the benefits of childhood activity may still be protecting them decades later.
Research has shown that physical activity during childhood and adolescence plays a crucial role in developing strong, healthy bones. In fact, some studies suggest that the benefits gained during these important growth years can remain long after the activity itself has stopped.
Our bones are living tissues that constantly adapt to the demands placed upon them. During childhood and adolescence, the skeleton is developing rapidly, making this one of the most important periods for building lifelong bone strength.
Activities that involve running, jumping, hopping, climbing and changing direction create what's known as mechanical loading. In simple terms, the impact and forces generated during movement stimulate the body to build stronger, denser bones.
This is one of the reasons why children instinctively love activities that adults often try to stop them doing.
Jumping off things.
Climbing trees.
Running around endlessly.
Playing games.
Their bodies are quite literally building themselves.
One particularly interesting area of research looked at former gymnasts who had stopped training several years earlier. Researchers found that these individuals still had greater bone mass and bone density compared to people who had never participated in gymnastics, suggesting that the benefits of weight-bearing exercise during growth can last well into adulthood.
Of course, this doesn't mean every child needs to become a gymnast.
Far from it.
The real message is much simpler.
Children need opportunities to move.
Whether that's football, rugby, dance, gymnastics, martial arts, climbing, athletics, cycling, surfing or simply playing outdoors, movement provides the stimulus their growing bodies need.
Unfortunately, modern life often works against this. Children spend more time sitting, more time indoors and more time looking at screens than ever before. Whilst technology certainly has its place, it can't replace the physical and developmental benefits that come from active play.
As a parent, one of the best gifts you can give your child is a love of movement.
Not because you want them to become an athlete.
Not because you want them to win medals.
But because the habits, strength, confidence and physical resilience they develop today may continue benefiting them for the rest of their lives.
Strong bones are built long before we start worrying about osteoporosis.
They're built through childhood adventures, muddy knees, playground games, sports clubs, bike rides and endless hours spent exploring the world.
That's the bear truth.