What counts as bone-strengthening activity?

Bone-strengthening activities produce an impact or tension force on the bones that promotes bone growth and strength.

Examples of bone-strengthening activities suitable for children include:

• activities that require children to lift their body weight or to work against a resistance
• jumping and climbing activities, combined with the use of playground equipment and toys
• games such as hopscotch
• skipping with a rope
• walking
• running
• gymnastics
• football
• basketball
• tennis
• squash
• martial arts

Examples of bone-strengthening activities suitable for young people include:

• dance
• aerobics
• weight-training
• water-based activities
• running
• sports such as gymnastics, football, netball, hockey, badminton and tennis
• skipping with a rope
• martial arts

Children and young people should take part in activities that are appropriate for their age and stage of development.