UNDER THE MICROSCOPE

How can being active give you more energy? Take a look at what happens when you exercise.

Your body uses oxygen to produce energy. When you move your body, you breathe faster and your heart pumps faster. This means that more oxygen gets into your cells. When you are active regularly, your body is also better at using oxygen to produce energy. The more active you are, the more oxygen your cells have to produce energy. In other words—using up energy can actually give you more energy in the long run.

Plus, kids who are active are less likely to be anxious or depressed than couch potatoes. Experts think it’s because exercise increases the amount of oxygen and other nutrients that get to the brain, giving it what it needs to keep you feeling your best. If you're feeling frustrated or angry, a quick jog around the block is a great way to blow off some steam. And, if you're active regularly, you'll be less likely to get depressed, anxious, or stressed in the first place.