Statistics show that suicide, pregnancy and firearm-homicide are all on the rise for teens. In 2007, the CDC reported that 23% of teens smoke, and 17% of eighth graders have tried alcohol. Only 30% of them get enough exercise, which means the other 70% are setting themselves up for a sedentary life. Kids who are physically active are less likely to have these problems; however, getting teens to exercise is no easy task. Here are some tips on how to work on teens fitness.
Quality Time, Quality Talk
It’s impossible to have good relationships with teenagers if you don’t spend time with them. Don’t expect teens to automatically think you’re cool and trustworthy—you’ll have to prove it. Accept them as they are, and show genuine concern for them. Learn their language so you can relate to what they have to say. A good listener has a better chance of developing relationships with teens, since most of them would rather talk than listen. Offer your words of wisdom only when necessary.
They’re Listening—What Do You Say?
Be a good role model by showing them that being active can be fun, and they will follow your example. Explain that physical activity is more than exercise classes or team sports – hiking, camping, body surfing and playing Frisbee™ are activities the whole family can enjoy. Teens will be having so much fun, they may not realize that what they’re doing is actually good for them.
Teenagers can participate in almost any fitness activity, including weight training, mountain biking or martial arts. Many gyms offer discounts to reach the younger market. Organized sports also improve socialization and develop discipline and teamwork skills.
Competing With The Negative
It’s difficult to get your message of good health and fitness across when you’re competing with…
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About the author
Dwayne Wimmer founded Vertex Fitness Personal Training Studio in 2001, excited to bring a new concept about personal training to the people of Philadelphia’s Main Line in Pennsylvania. Driven by knowledge and results both, while a strength coach at Villanova University, he worked closely with world class athletes such as Brian Westbrook, formerly of the Philadelphia Eagles, on strength training and conditioning for optimal performance. Dwayne’s client base extends much further than world class athletes. Along with athletes, he works with adolescents to seniors, and he’s a highly acclaimed and sought out personal trainer who has received numerous awards, such as Best of the Main Line Personal Training Studio and Best Main Line Personal Trainer.
A graduate of Missouri Western State University, Dwayne has a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education, with an emphasis in Coaching. Aside from personal training, he’s spent time as a physical education teacher, strength and conditioning coach, and a football coach, but has found his passion and home in the fitness industry, inspiring and reaching out to others. As a strong believer in continuing to learn, Dwayne has also taken classes at East Stroudsburg University toward a Masters Degree in Sports Management.
He can add author to his list of accomplishments, having created a chapter in the upcoming book The Soul of Success with Jack Canfield, renowned for the Chicken Soup series.
To get to the point where he is now, Dwayne has always been thankful for the support of his father, a man who always believed in his mission and saw the need for what it was that Dwayne envisioned. During his free time, Dwayne is an avid motorcyclist who enjoys viewing the amazing landscapes and finding good restaurants to enjoy that are off the beaten path. He also takes advantage of opportunities to travel and experience many other cities while attending fitness seminars and giving presentations about the industry he is so passionate about. As a way to give back to the community that has been a part of his entire life, Dwayne has created Vertex Fitness PUMPED (People United Making Progress through Education and Donations), which provides support to area non-profits through a community-wide outreach effort. At this time, they help three non-profits per year in the Philadelphia area.
For more information from Dwayne, you may contact him at (610) 525-6604, dwayne@vertexfit.com