Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, no matter what age you are. Physical activity greatly impact our physical, mental and emotional development and health. However, getting the teenage boy in your household to get active can be a task in itself. Exercise has many benefits for teenagers including improving mood, reducing depression and anxiety, increasing energy levels, boosting the immune system and maintaining physical health. It can also help boost a teen's onfidence. Distractions such as television, the Internet, video games and cell phones take away time and motivation for other activities.
Step 1
Set ground rules for how much television, Internet and phone time is acceptable. Lead by example and limit your own time on these devices and get exercise everyday. Encourage healthy eating and exercise habits by forming your own first.
Step 2
Choose an activity that is appropriate for a teenage boy. Take him to the local pool or ice-skating rink. Purchase and install a basketball hoop in your driveway or backyard. If you do not provide alternative opportunities to get exercise, a teenage boy will become frustrated or bored.
Step 3
Enroll your teenager in sports activities such as hockey or soccer. Being part of a team and seeing his peers being active will encourage a teenage boy to enjoy sports. Support his performance in the sport and encourage him to work hard.
Step 4
Get outdoors and out of the house. Take teenage boys biking or rollerblading in the park. Plan a camping trip or schedule canoe or kayaking rentals. If an activity is scheduled in advance it is more likely that teenagers and adults will do it.
Step 5
Go for a family stroll or walk after dinner. Making this a regular family routine and an enjoyable time to talk will encourage your teenage boy to do it. Keep the conversation light and entertaining to avoid making this a serious time or something a teenage boy would rather opt out of.
Tips and Warnings
- Encourage him to bring teammates and members of other social groups to a barbecue or movie night at your home. This helps them form healthy ties with balanced groups of people that encourage exercise and sports.
- You cannot be with your teenage boy at all times and this age group is prone to high-risk behavior. Establish firm ground rules about where your teen can hang out and what type of activities he is allowed to do. talk to him about wearing a helmet and protective gear when practicing high-risk types of sports.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Depression and Anxiety: Exercise Eases Symptoms
- Journal of Adolescent Health; High Exercise Levels Are Related to Favorable Sleep Patterns and Psychological Functioning in Adolescents: A Comparison of Athletes and Controls; Brand, S. et al; Volume 46, Issue 2 , Pages 133-141, February 2010Volume 46, Issue 2 , Pages 133-141, February 2010
- PBS.org: Motivating Youth to Get More Exercise
- KidsHealth: Keeping Kids Active
