Children's fitness report reveals Playstation generation

4.01.00pm GMT Tue 22nd Dec 2009

Norman Lamb MP on a visit to Broomfield Hospital with Chelmsford Lib Dem Stephen Robinson

Today's British Medical Journal reveals there has been a large and worrying decline in children's fitness. Commented Norman Lamb MP (Lib Dem Shadow Health Secretary): "Ministers should ensure that the Olympic legacy will help to reverse this disturbing trend." Chelmsford Lib Dem Stephen Robinson added, "As the parent of a Nintendo Wii fan, I am very aware of the need to limit use of games machines. It's not just about good physical health but also the mental health of the next generation."

Added Norman Lamb, "These findings send a very powerful message out about the risks of inactivity and lack of exercise. The health consequences for the Playstation generation could be disastrous.

"This analysis makes it clear that those risks go beyond the danger of obesity. We need a major effort to get youngsters active again and help to reverse this worrying decline in fitness levels.