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Want to get fit but don't know where to start? Teens have unique issues when it comes to getting fit and staying active. But there is no more perfect time than to start an exercise routine when you are still in your teens. Starting now will create habits that will keep you healthy for a lifetime.
5 Fitness Tips for Teens
Don't be embarassed. So what if you can't run a mile? Who cares if you can only do "girly push-ups"? Don't worry if your fat jiggles when you walk! Everybody has to start somewhere and nobody starts out as an elite athlete. So many people don't start exercising because they are too embarrassed. I can't believe how many times I've heard, "Oh, I'll join a gym after I lose 20 lbs." This is ridiculous! Get over yourself and just get moving.
Start small. Nobody expects you to run 10 miles or bench-press 200lbs on your first day. You need to work up to these things. In fact, if you do too much too quickly you're likely to either burn out or seriously injure yourself. Walking is good.
Do both cardio and weights. Many teens do one or the other, but for faster results, you should do both cardio and weight training. Don't worry girls...you won't bulk up like a body builder. You will simply be healthy and strong.
Muscles need time to repair. You should not exercise the same group of muscles two days in a row...this includes abs! Your muscles need time to repair and grow stronger. Give them a break.
Find a buddy. Things are easier when you've got someone to help you along the way. Team up with a friend and exercise together. Even if you can't exercise together, you can still motivate each other. Can't find anyone to work out with you? How about the family dog? I'm sure he'd love to go for a walk with you.
It's a lot easier to start a fitness program than you might think and I hope that these tips help to get you on the right track.
For more fitness tips for teens, check out the teen section at Better Off Fat.
Shannon Tani is a former fattie, who weighed over 220lbs. She has currently lost over 70lbs. One day she realized that people would rather hear dieting advice from someone who's "been there, done that" than a boring old doctor who's never been fat a day in his life. So she started the website Better Off Fat to share her experiences and ideas.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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