Wednesday 16th December 2009

Chartered Physiotherapists are recommending that people buying Christmas presents for children this year should include gifts that encourage active play, to help children achieve the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity every day.*

The Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP) is concerned that many of the toys that children are asking Santa to bring do not encourage play that is sufficiently energetic to help keep them healthy. "The most popular toys involve sedentary play, however the ISCP recommends toys which promote physical activity which is the key to ensuring children's health", said Spencer Turvey MISCP, Communications Officer with the ISCP.

1. Skipping rope
2. Roller skates
3. Football
4. Hula hoop
5. Frisbee
6. Basketball hoop
7. Tennis racquet
8. Swimming goggles
9. Plug in and play dance mat
10. Pogo stick
11. Nintendo Wii Fit Plus game
12. Trainers/plimsolls

Chartered Physiotherapists suggest that Christmas is an ideal opportunity to introduce children to fun active play, as alongside usual presents, one piece of sporting equipment or an energetic toy in their stockings will help children to get a bit of vital exercise while they enjoy Christmas time and all their presents.

"The presents on our wish list are reasonably priced meaning that keeping your children active and protecting their long-term health doesn't need to break the bank."

ENDS

Note for Editors:

For further information please contact:

• Sinéad Fennell, Communications & Events Coordinator, ISCP, 086 6075266
• Spencer Turvey, Communications Officer, ISCP, 086 8275880

* ISCP Move4Health 2009 Campaign - "Eat Smart, Move More!"

New research shows that 1 in 4 seven-year-old children in Ireland are either overweight or obese. Eat Smart, Move More! guides parents through tips to make simple practical changes to a child's diet and activity levels through a sensitive family-based approach. The booklet outlines tips for exercise and a balanced, healthy diet for all children in order to promote good health both now and in later life.

Exercise is essential to prevent obesity and to develop:

• a healthy heart;
• muscle strength;
• adequate bone density and therefore a reduced risk of osteoporosis
• balance and co-ordination skills;
• social skills and confidence, and to help a child's physical, intellectual, social and emotional development

The Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP) is the designated authority for Physiotherapy in Ireland and is the sole body recognised by the World Confederation of Physical Therapy (WCPT).

The Society was founded in 1983 following a number of developments in the profession including the establishment of a university degree qualification. Over the years there has been an increased public demand for the services of the Chartered Physiotherapist and it is the role of the Society to ensure that this demand is met by the highest standards of care.

Additional information can be viewed at www.iscp.ie or www.physicaltherapy.ie or www.eatsmartmovemore.ie