Obesity in Teens can be avoided with Regular Physical Activity
A research conducted by health experts from John Hopkins University showed how teens can avoid obesity by engaging in physical activities more than twice a week.
Published in the Archives of pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, the study began in 1996 and involved interviewing almost 3,345 teens about their extracurricular and school-based physical activities. The teens’ body weight were recorded and then re-obtained after 5 years. The result showed that the majority of those teens who were already overweight doubled their body mass index in the 5-year period. Only 11 percent of these overweight teens were able to have normal weight.
The study also concluded a 48 percent decrease in the risk of becoming overweight for teens who engaged in activities such as rollerblading, bicycling and skateboarding for about 4 times weekly. On the other hand, a 20 percent decrease was enjoyed for teens participating in sports like baseball, basketball, soccer, football, softball and swimming at least 3 times weekly.
Participating in physical education classes daily can also decrease the chances of these teens becoming overweight as adults by 28 percent. Teenagers who started out with normal weight will be highly at risk of becoming overweight if they fail to engage in any physical activity.
Difficult Years
Although the teenage years are considered to be the most difficult time for both parents and their children, this should not stop you from ensuring that your child will continue to be enjoy a normal weight. If you are worried about your child becoming overweight, you can always do the following:
Communicate – talking with your child about their health will make them understand why you are encouraging them to participate in extracurricular and school-based activities. You should let your teen choose an activity that he/she will enjoy and support his/her decision. If it is a sport, you should try to watch every game to show your support. If it is a non-school-based activity, then you can always learn about a thing or two about it.
Spend time – taking time out from work and making an effort to be with your children will help boost their confidence. You can always engage in outdoor activities that will involve some fun physical activity. Playing a game of basketball or football in your yard will be hitting two birds with one stone. You will be able to spend time with your teen and engage them in a physical activity.
Educate – it is very important that you teach your children the importance of being fit and healthy. Of course, you should set a good example for credibility. Your teens will appreciate your efforts to educate them about a healthy lifestyle and they will surely be grateful if they grow up to be active adults.
Obesity is an epidemic that can be prevented if you understand the important role you have to play in your teen’s health. By doing your part, you are ensuring a longer healthy life for your child.
