Being a teenage guy is never easy and the 21st century provides a number of challenges specific to your generation. However, a number of basics remain the same. Staying healthy and alive is the most important part of being a teenage guy. But knowing the best way to do this isn't always intuitive or easy. Fortunately, others have blazed the trail before you. Their knowledge adds up to a teenage guy's survival guide.
Driving
Almost half of all teen drivers admit to texting while driving. Driver distraction results in almost 6,000 deaths every year and over 500,000 driving-related injuries every year. Many states have laws against texting and driving. As a teenage guy, you want to avoid being the passenger in a car where the driver is distracted or under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Stay sharp, pay attention to the road and don't get in cars with people whose driving is impaired.
Exercise
It is important to form good exercise habits in your teenage years. These habits will go with you throughout your life. Exercise will not only keep you in good shape, but has other benefits as well. Regular exercise in your teen years can lead to a higher IQ, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Cardiovascular fitness in particular is linked with smarts in young men. You may be surprised to learn that the NIH study found that teenage guys who exercise landed better paying jobs later in life.
Drugs and Alcohol
It's unlikely that you will make it through your high school years without any pressure to try drugs and alcohol. Remember the dangers of drug and alcohol use, including impaired judgment, addiction and health problems. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, teenage guys are at a much greater risk of drug and alcohol addiction than their female counterparts. Know the reasons for saying no, stand your ground and avoid "friends" who won't take "no" for an answer.
Eating Right
It's more important to eat right during your teen years than ever. As a teenage guy, your body has specific requirements for nutrition and keeping healthy. Between 10 and 30 percent of your calories should come from protein. From 45 to 65 percent of your calories should come from carbohydrates. Don't get more than 35 percent of your daily calories from fat, but get at least 25 percent of your calories from fat. Avoid junk food, as it leads to an increased risk of diabetes, obesity and certain cancers.
Sex
You should never have sex because your partner is pressuring you to. Sex carries a number of potential consequences, from disease to pregnancy. Sex before you feel ready can lead to intangible consequences for your self-worth and mental well-being. You cannot know in advance what emotions and reactions will come up for yourself and your sexual partner once you have had sex. Don't be afraid to talk openly about sex with your parents or another adult that you trust. If you are considering having sex, be prepared to use condoms and to use them properly.
