Fitness and Teens: Why it matters

Let’s start with this stat:

From the 1970’s until present day, the prevalence of overweight and obese teenagers (ages 12–19) increased from 6.1% to 18.4%, and that number is still growing. What’s more, if a teen is overweight, it increases their risk for heart disease and other chronic illnesses as they age, and makes getting back to a healthy weight harder to achieve.

But exercise shouldn’t only be about avoiding obesity and feeling bad when stepping on the scale. Let’s look at the awesome benefits: exercise produces brain chemicals called endorphins, which makes people feel elated and happy. Fitness also promotes better sleep (teens need a solid 9-10 hours a night), and keeps bones strong. There are mental health benefits as well. Exercise helps to ward off stress and anxiety, help with depression, and boost self-acceptance and esteem.

The most effective exercise routines are comprised of three elements: aerobics, strength training, and flexibility. It is recommended that teens get 60 minutes of exercise in a day, so keep things varied and make sure to also incorporate rest!

Here are some fitness ideas to get started:

• Aerobics: Aerobic exercises focus on heart health —specifically heart rate and breathing. Another word for this is cardio. Examples of cardio/aerobic workouts include running/jogging, hiking, rowing, swimming, biking, dancing, and team sports (basketball, lacrosse, hockey, soccer, tennis.)

• Strength training: Strength training has many benefits—toning muscles actually increases endurance, while helping muscles burn fat more effectively. Strength exercises include bodyweight exercises like push-ups, curl ups, squats, and lunges. Consider working with a personal trainer (we happen to know a few here at YES).

Exercise shouldn’t be seen as a chore. Instead, it should be a fun addition to a teen's daily routine. And remember: exercise helps keep you healthy, promotes a better mood, and can even help build friendships and community!

It’s all part of something more.

*Excerpts taken from www.mealpreponfleek.com