To better understand
When we talk about physical activity in teens, we often think about games, competitions and tournaments. But did you know that the benefits movement has on teens can be observed well before the physical activity reaches a competitive level?
Physical activity is known to have a positive impact on:
- Physical health: bone health, cardiovascular health, muscular endurance, flexibility, motor skills;
- Mental health: mood, self-esteem, reduced stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms;
- Concentration;
- Social skills: emotion regulation, teamwork;
- Sense of belonging at school;
- Perseverance and academic success.
By encouraging your teen to participate in physical activities, you’re giving them a gift for life! Most active teens will maintain the good lifestyle habits they learned while participating in physical activities into their adult life.
Did you know that…
At adolescence, only 35 % of boys and 22 % of girls get enough physical activity.
Teens who move 60 minutes a day at a moderate to high intensity are considered active.
What is considered moderate- to high-intensity physical activity? Any activity that increases heart and breathing rates sufficiently or significantly. If you find it hard to say a few words while exercising, you’re at a good intensity.
Be there for your teen
Tips and tricks
- To encourage your teen to participate in family activities, let them help plan and choose the activities.
- While parents you don’t have to be an athlete to be a good example. Going to practices and competitions with your teen shows them that you support them and are interested in their activities.
- One of the best ways to help your teen feel more competent is to give them an opportunity to identify their strengths. You can:
- Point out any excellent accomplishments. For example: Your vision of the game in the defensive zone prevented several goals, fantastic!
- Identify a strength your child can use. For example: You’re very good at passing. How could you use your skills better at the next game?
In short
- Most teens don’t reach the recommended level of physical activity. That means they’re missing out on the many benefits.
- Be more active! That’s the main message to give teens.
- The pleasure they get from practising a sport can be a powerful motivator.
Practical resources and tools
1. To support you :
Are you dealing with a situation that worries you? Ask for help:
2. For more information :
Following are some tools to help you learn more about what physical and sports activities your teen can participate in:
- Web site Vifa Magazine
- Web site Je clic loisirs en Montérégie
- Web site Gouvernement du Québec
- Information for your teens: the brochure from the Public Health Agency of Canada
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