Is Your Teen Fit?

Researchers are sounding the alarm: Teens are out of shape.

Fitness and fun

That sums up this touch football game played by (l-r) Michael, Estefan and Gannon at Boroline Park in Emmaus.

Studies show that one in three American teens would flunk an 8-minute treadmill test, a situation that raises their risk for high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity and osteoporosis. If your teen isn’t an athlete, is he or she doomed to be a couch (or computer) potato?

“Teens don’t have to be in competitive sports to stay fit,” says adolescent medicine specialist Sarah Stevens, M.D., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. “Fitness begins with good role models at home. When the family is physically active together, children are more likely to stay active as they grow up.” Some ideas:

• Walk while you talk — Instead of just chatting with a friend, do something active together. It’s more fun (for adults and teens).
• Try something new — Teens might enjoy a class in hip hop dance, tae kwon do or horseback riding. In fact, the whole family might like it!
• Outfit your house — Invest in a small trampoline, in-line skates or a basketball hoop.
• Plan things together — Do a family bike ride, swim or nature hike—with teen friends welcome to come along.
• Limit “down” time — “Prolonged sitting in front of the TV, computer or video games contributes to slower metabolism and can ultimately lead to obesity. This is also time away from physical activities that help develop a healthy heart and strong bones and muscles,” says Stevens’ colleague, physical therapist Jennifer Roeder.

With daily activity and good “fuel” (fruits, vegetables and whole grains), your teen will look and feel healthier, Roeder says. A few parental cautions: Don’t put adolescents on strict exercise routines (it’ll just backfire), don’t expect change overnight, and most important, practice what you preach. You might find an activity you all enjoy so much, you won’t even notice it’s exercise.

ARTICLE TOOLS: