Encourage your teenager to get a move on

The teenage years can be tricky. Peer pressure is peaking. Angst may be massive. Bodies are changing. Hormones are racing, Weight may yo yo. Confidence may fluctuate. Self-esteem can be shaky.

No surprise then that some days your teenager may flatly refuse to leave their room. While the next night she’s sashaying out the door dressed for the red carpet.

Some kind of exercise should be part of every teenager’s life, regardless of how good or bad they are at sport.  Because as well as helping burn off the excess energy of youth, exercise has huge and wide-ranging benefits for teenagers:

• Keeps young bodies lithe, fit and flexible
• Improves circulation, blood pressure and cardiovascular system
• Helps maintain a healthy weight
• Keeps kids grounded and less prone to teenage angst
• Boosts self-confidence
• Strengthens growing bones and improves bone density
• Strengthens immune system
• Team activities are great for making friends and learning skills
• Other family members can join in if possible

Some tips for encouraging exercise and sport

• Start exercising yourself and invite them to join in, whether it’s walking, swimming or tennis or soccer in the local park.
• If they show interest in an activity or sport, help them get involved. Make enquiries, get the equipment, book coaching lessons, buy the club membership, drive them to the sports venue, and stick around to watch and applaud their efforts.
• Suggest some activities you think might be compatible with their other interests.

For example, if they love music, chances are they’ll love dancing too. Dancing doesn’t have to be learnt in a class: it’s lots of fun just dancing in the sitting room or at a concert.

·  Nearly all kids like bikes because they’re a great way to get around to see your friends when you’re too young for a car. Cycling is a fantastic way to keep fit and active. Just make sure their bike is in good order and that they wear a helmet and know the road rules.

·  Invest in some fun and games equipment for your home, such as a backyard trampoline, a swimming pool, table tennis table, and a basketball hoop.  Encourage your kids to get their friends to come over and play. Make friends feel welcome by having lots of healthy snacks and drinks freely available.

·  Buy exercise and sports equipment for Christmas and birthday presents. Get the kids to go with you to get the appropriate clothing and footwear.