Active Kids Stay Fit, Out of Trouble
By Alex Cabe

A new study shows that kids who exercise see more than just health benefits. Physically active kids have better grades and are less likely to drink or use drugs. Kids who exercise also learn better social skills than peers who watch lots of television.

UNC assistant professor Penny Gordon-Larsen helped write the study. She says it isn't just traditional sports that help kids stay out of trouble.

“It's not kind of a one-size-fits-all,” said Gordon-Larsen. “There are a range of kids who are not going to be interested in team sports, and it's important to have options for those kids to be active.”

The study also linked non-traditional sports like skateboarding to higher self-esteem and less risky behavior.