BRISTOL, England, March 19 Taking the time to kick a soccer ball for 15 minutes after school could make a big difference in childhood obesity, say British and American researchers.Participating in recreational activity for a brief period each day can reduce a child's chances of becoming obese by nearly 50 percent, says a study published online in PLoS Medicine.The study was conducted by the ongoing Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, based out of the University of Bristol. It followed more than 5,500 12-year-olds by measuring their activity levels for 10 hours a day. Although eating the right food is crucial in staving off obesity, the researchers found getting good exercise establishes better long-term habits."What this research tells us is we must not forget about activity. It's been really surprising to us how even small amounts of exercise appear to have dramatic results," head researcher Chris Riddoch said in a statement. Experts suggest walking your child to school, rather than driving, could be a simple way to improve the future of your child. Keeping any activity at least as vigorous as a brisk walk is also important, experts said.Copyright 2007 by UPI
