Children who have active friends are often far more physically active than those with mates that are less interested in exercise, according to new research.

A study led by Sabina Gesell of Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Nashville revealed kids belonging to lively peer groups are six times more likely to change their exertion levels.

"Friendship ties may play a critical role in setting physical activity patterns in children as young as five to 12 years," the researchers concluded.

During the survey it was found students in after-school programmes spent an average of 30 per cent of their free time running and playing active games.

It was suggested these findings could help point to a possible strategy for getting kids to spend less time watching TV and surfing the web, which in turn could help tackle childhood obesity.

The research comes after a recent study by the Women's Sport and Fitness Foundation revealed 51 per cent of young girls are put off physical activity for life as a result of their experiences with school PE lessons.

Written by Donal Walsh

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