Teens are using physical activity to keep them fit; Ideas for a healthy lifestyle

Matthew Ledford, Reporter

 As described by the health department, the activity known as exercise is described as engaging in a form of physical activity which increases the person’s heart rate beyond normal resting levels. Whether people engage in light exercise, such as going for a walk, or high intensity activities, for example, uphill cycling or weight training, regular exercise provides a huge range of benefits for the body and mind.

     Psychiatrists report that people also are seen to have increased confidence, peer acceptance, leadership skills, and empathy; these are just four of the social benefits children receive from sports and physical activity.

    Mr. Justin Martinick, both a teacher and the Varsity football coach, states “Both healthy weight and strong muscles are all things that are important in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Living a healthy lifestyle can help prevent chronic diseases and long-term illnesses, states registered pediatricians.” 

     Along with feeling good about yourself and taking care of your health are important for your self-esteem and self-image. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by doing what is right for your body. 

     Studies show that persistent exercise can improve your cardiovascular health and your posture. Maintaining an increased fitness level at an adolescent age can also set individuals up to be healthier later on in life, preventing future problems such as heart disease and diabetes. Regular physical activity can also increase your muscle strength and boost your endurance. 

     Muscular strength and endurance are important for many reasons in all people, especially teenagers. To increase your ability to do activities which can include but are not limited to opening doors, lifting boxes or chopping wood without getting tired. Lead to healthier, stronger muscles and bones according to health professionals. 

     Studies show that it can improve confidence and how you feel about yourself. According to the health department exercise delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helps your cardiovascular system work more efficiently. And when your heart and lung health improve, you have more energy to tackle daily chores.

     It is proven that while many people may see exercise more as a chore rather than an activity, daily and consistent exercise is proven to have a profoundly positive impact on depression, anxiety, and ADHD. It also relieves stress, improves memory, helps you sleep better, and boosts your overall mood. All these things can be accomplished through daily exercise. 

     “Daily persistent exercise keeps muscles strong and joints, tendons and ligaments flexible, giving people the ability to move more easily and avoid injury. Strong muscles and ligaments reduce your risk of joint and lower back pain by keeping joints in proper alignment.” says Johns Hopkins 

     While exercise is a key factor in a healthy lifestyle, the diet you eat also plays a key role in your health. According to the health department, a healthy diet helps children and teenagers grow and develop properly and reduces their risk of chronic diseases, including obesity. Adults who eat a healthy diet live longer and have a lower risk of obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.