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Adolescent Health

The right amount of exercise for the adolescent

Adolescents and young adults, both male and female, benefit from physical activity. It can be moderate – like walking or dancing – or more strenuous – like running or playing tennis – but all of it is beneficial. Moderate amounts of daily physical activity are recommended for people of all ages.

Weight-bearing exercises help build healthy bones, which is especially important during this time of rapid growth and development. Exercise can be done in longer sessions of moderately intense activities, such as brisk walking for 30 minutes a day, or shorter sessions of more intense activities, such as jogging or playing basketball for 15-20 minutes a day.

Adolescents should get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week; getting exercise in three 10-minute segments counts, too.

Greater amounts of physical activity are even more beneficial, but up to a point. Excessive amounts of physical activity can lead to injuries, menstrual abnormalities, and bone weakening.

It’s best to design an exercise plan that works for your adolescent’s personality, lifestyle and interests. If after school works best, take a 30 minute walk or jog together - it's good for the whole family - the dog will enjoy it too! If after school sports like swimming or soccer are on the activity list, encourage her participation and join in for weekend pick-up games with family and friends. Activity, togetherness, fun and sportsmanship - these build far more than healthy bones, they build healthy people!