Teenagers growing up in a high-tech society are at risk for developing sedentary lifestyles that lead to poor health. Jogging provides an inexpensive and accessible exercise for participants of all ages, shapes and sizes. It challenges your body, improves your health and offers a healthy outlet for physical activity.
Disease Prevention
About 12.5 million children and adolescents in the United States are obese, according to a 2008 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Obesity increases your risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure and heart disease. Jogging burns calories and assists with weight management. For instance, a 150-lb. person jogging at a 12-minute-per-mile pace burns about 238 calories in 30 minutes. Combine jogging with a sensible diet to maintain a healthy weight while strengthening your cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems.
Athletic Performance
Join your school's cross-country or track team to take your jogging to a competitive level. Jogging improves your strength and endurance, which helps your off-season conditioning for such sports as basketball, tennis, football and swimming. Your confidence improves along with your fitness, resulting in better sports performance.
Social Connections
Jog with friends to build camaraderie while providing and receiving encouragement. Jogging with partners creates accountability and increases your consistency. Make new friends by inviting physically active teens to join your group. Center your social activities around healthy activities to avoid engaging in self-destructive behaviors.
Healthy Habits
Use jogging, which helps you develop discipline, as the foundation for healthy habits you can carry into adulthood. Practice other healthful habits that benefit your jogging performance; for example, get adequate rest and eat well-balanced meals. Healthy lifestyle habits decrease your risk for premature death and enhance your quality of life.
References
- United States Department of Health and Human Services; Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans; Chapter 3: Active Children and Adolescents
- National PTA; Decline of Physical Activity; Ted Villaire
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Data and Statistics: Obesity Rates Among All Children in the United States
- HealthStatus: Calories Burned Calculator
