With computers, televisions and video games to occupy their limited free time, teenagers might forget to exercise. Physical activity is important for people of all ages, including teens. The National Institutes of Health's MedlinePlus recommends that teenagers get an hour of physical activity every day. Finding creative ways to fit in exercise is a key way to keep teenagers fit.
Sports
Teenagers can get their exercise in, represent their school well and learn the benefits of teamwork by participating in school-sponsored sports. Sports like soccer and cross country burn plenty of calories as athletes run up and down the field or track. Tennis gives a full-body workout and can build arm and leg strength. Volleyball, basketball and football require precise hand-eye coordination and challenge athletes physically as well.
Running
Running is an ideal exercise for teenagers because they can fit it into their busy schedules. They can run a mile on the school track in the afternoons or take a lap or two around the neighborhood in the evenings. Moreover, running can be a social activity, as teens can run in pairs or groups and challenge each other. Running is an all-over workout that can be done at different speeds and intensities, making it feasible for any teen, no matter his athletic ability.
Social Exercises
Some activities give teens a good workout -- and they might not even notice that they are getting exercise. Hobbies such as skateboarding, bike riding, bowling, rollerblading and dancing are good exercises as well as healthy hobbies for teens to enjoy. These activities give a cardio workout, and they work especially well for teens because they can serve as social activity, too.
Swimming
Teenagers might see the pool as a social spot, not a place for exercise, but swimming is an effective cardio exercise that is good for the whole body. Teens can turn this exercise into a competitive one by signing up for a local swim team through their parks and recreation department. Or, they can just do laps on their own in their community pool.
