Exercise has many benefits. It can:
Try to exercise at a moderate level for at least 60 minutes most days of the week. In addition to being active everyday, it is recommended that you do vigorous aerobic activity at least 3 times a week. Starting slow and building up to this is just fine. Every little bit counts when you're just starting, so take time for a short walk or bike ride a few times during the day.
Muscles that are warmed-up before exercise are more flexible and less likely to be injured. Brisk walking, easy jogging, or jumping jacks are good ways to get your muscles warm and ready to go.
After your muscles are warmed up, you may also want to stretch. Some people feel better if they stretch before and after exercise. Stretching after exercise is more important than stretching before exercise. It decreases the risk for being sore or injured.
Pay attention to how your body feels, such as getting really tired, out of breath, or being too sore the next day. If you are unsure, ask your healthcare provider, coach, or physical education teacher. Always drink water before, during, and after exercise.
There are 3 main types of exercise: aerobic exercise, strength training, and stretching. All are important for good health.
Aerobic exercise works the heart and gets your muscles to use more oxygen. After a time, your heart will get stronger and able to deliver oxygen to your muscles more easily. This is what is known as "getting into shape." Start slowly. If weight reduction is your goal, it is important to do some type of aerobic activity most days, plus adding a few days of strength training.
Most school sports are aerobic and will give you a chance to get plenty of exercise several times a week. Tennis, hockey, rowing, soccer, basketball, volleyball, and cross-country running are all good examples of aerobic sports. Other aerobic exercises you can do on your own include:
There are lots of benefits to strengthening your muscles. When you work your muscles, they get stronger and able to work longer without getting tired. Stomach muscles support the back, so strengthening this area is really important. One of the greatest benefits of strength training is that it helps you burn more energy when you are at rest. Muscle mass burns more calories than fat so as your muscle increases so does your ability to burn calories. You should do strength training 3 times per week. There are lots of options:
Being flexible makes it easier to do many activities and also decreases risk for getting hurt. If you warm up before exercise and stretch after exercise, you will not be as sore. You can also do simple stretches before and after sports or other aerobic activities. There are also other activities that improve your flexibility such as:
If you haven't been active lately, your goal is to get started doing something physical every day. Give your lungs, heart, and muscles time to adjust by starting slowly. Think about your style. Do you like organized activities or exercising on your own? Do you need someone or something to help motivate you? If so, sign up for a class or workout with a friend or family member. Do something you enjoy. If you choose something you don't really like, you won't stick with it. To avoid getting burned out, do a variety of activities.
If you would like to exercise, but would rather get in shape in private there are some good options. You can:
If you are severely overweight or you have other health problems such as high blood pressure, be sure to speak with your parents and healthcare provider before starting an exercise program.
Keep track of the time you spend watching television, chatting on the computer or playing video games. These activities are all fun and you don't have to give them up, but don't let them take the place of physical activities. Also try to limit the sweets, sodas, and high-fat fast foods you eat. Making healthier food choices can really improve your sports performance and help to maintain a healthy weight.
