Let's Get Our Teens Fit Now!
A few issues ago, I looked at the problems facing all of us in getting our kids to increase their level of fitness – and the ramifications if we fail. This generation may well suffer age-related health problems at a much earlier age. In fact, this generation will likely, for the first time in history, have a shorter life span than their parents. Frightening!
By Earl Salzman
These days teens are the most likely group to be physically unfit. This is due to social and academic pressures, as well as physical and emotional changes, plus the six hours on average per day they spend on electronic media. It’s increasingly tough for a parent to cut through all of this and motivate their teen to exercise. It is recommended that teens get one hour of exercise per day to keep fit. How do we get these tech-savvy, emotionally charged, stubborn creatures to understand the holistic benefits of physical activity?
Recently I spoke with Rebecca Green, Principal of Bill Crothers Secondary School (BCSS), a unique new high school, about this issue. This school, which promotes sport as a necessary part of student development, was founded on the principle of making students academically and physically literate. In order to be truly well rounded, students not only need to grow mentally, but must also improve their physical skills and continue to be active throughout their lives.
Ms. Green commented on the fact that they are exploring how success in physical education can be used to encourage higher academic standings in other courses. She also mentioned that students are more likely to be racially tolerant, being exposed to different cultures in team settings, and are less likely to use drugs and alcohol, because of the performance requirements of athletics.
The school emphasizes community involvement. They partner with Right to Play, an organization which brings sport to disadvantaged countries, and they require students to do double the normal number of required hours of community service. Helping out with elementary school sports programs and coaching teams is encouraged. The end result is a greater sense of social responsibility.
The concepts taught at BCSS can be applied by parents and kids everywhere. Along with school, the home environment is key to getting teens active. Parents, your level of activity is a powerful motivator for your child. Despite their rebellious façade, teens look to you as role models for their behaviour. If they see you enjoying the benefits of an active lifestyle, they are likely to follow your example. Do things together, such as bike rides, running, shooting hoops, playing catch, pumping iron. Getting involved with community sporting events is a great way to motivate your teens and to stay connected.
Empower your teens by involving them in the decision-making process when choosing which activities to pursue. Keep in mind that some kids thrive in team sports, while some prefer individual pursuits such as martial arts, yoga, gymnastics, running or weight lifting. Some like competition. Some prefer a more inclusive, fun approach. Whatever activities you choose, your child should have the final decision.
Remember that everyday activities also have the potential to increase fitness: from walking to school and doing chores, to finding an active part-time job like camp counseling or assisting with sports teams – every bit helps.
Here’s what active teens say about the value of sport in their lives:
“Sport keeps me calm and helps me see things from many perspectives.” – Nathaniel S., Crothers student
“Sport has allowed me to experience competition to get ready for a competitive world.” – Robert W., baseball player
“Hockey has made me more social with others . . . making new friends is easier when everyone around you has the same interest.” – Cam S., hockey player
“I have more energy to do stuff I want to do. I have better hand eye co-ordination.” – Louise F., field hockey player
“My lungs have been strengthened. I have asthma . . . I don’t know what my life would be like without dance.” – Carli B., dancer
You’ve heard it from teens. You’ve heard it from educators. Sport enriches lives! It is a necessary part of human health and development. The message is clear: with the help of role models such as educators, parents and peers, teenagers will realize the value of sport and experience its immeasurable rewards now and throughout their lives.
Earl Salzman is a Markham-based Certified Personal Trainer and educator, providing one-on-one and group training to private and corporate clients. Contact: 416-529-7173 or muscleandmusic@rogers.com
2600 John Street, Unit 207, Markham, ON L3R 3W3 T: 905.475.5222 F: 905.475.6369
