Teen Fitness: 5 Tips for Helping Busy Teens Stay Active

Kids love to romp around on the playground, but as they grow into their teenage years and their schedules get busier, lots of kids start spending more time with their computer screen or video game console than with their scooters or bicycles.

But teenagers can particularly benefit from the boost in energy and self-esteem that comes with staying physically active. Here are five tips for helping your kids stay active during their teenage years.

1. Keep it low-pressure. You and your teenager have probably heard the experts say that teens need physical exercise each day, but it might be more appealing to your child if you don't make exercise sound like just another thing they need to jam into their already crazy schedules.

Talk to them about how exercise is about releasing some of their energy and stress.

Talk to them about how it's something their body needs to do, and encourage them to get out in nature to exercise as much as possible.

There is something so naturally restorative about getting your body moving each day in nature. My children were saying just today how our daily half-hour hike helps them to feel peaceful all day because, whenever they get tense, they can remember the peace that resides in the forest.

2. Give your teenager lots of options. If your teenager doesn't like to run or jog or bike, suggest she take a walk with a friend instead. And stay alert to your teenager expressing interest in a new kind of physical activity, whether it's gymnastics, skateboarding, dancing, ice skating, swimming, basketball, soccer, football or skiing.

You can also get some free weights for your home. Make sure that whatever you set up is a low-pressure environment. Competitive sports can be a great way to stay in shape, but it's not the only way.

3. If your teens express some resistance to going out on a walk or a bike ride, remind them that everyone has resistance sometimes to getting outside and getting active. Share with them when you feel resistance. Once your teenager has been out moving for 10 minutes, ask him again how he feels.

4. Sign up for a fun run or a walk for charity. This is a great activity for the family to engage in together. n
5. Make sure that you are exercising every day, too. When your teenagers see you weaving physical activity into your daily life, they will be more apt to follow suit. Then you'll both benefit.

Physical activity can help your teenager develop a healthy self-esteem and body image while reducing their stress and helping them to sleep better and maintain focus at school. Just remember to give them lots of options and to keep the pressure to a minimum. nn