Helping Your Teen Love Exercise Is More Than Public School PE

Physical Education exists in a love/hate relationship with many adolescents. Either way you look at it, there’s no denying that exercise is a crucial part of staying healthy, and physical education may be a graduation requirement in many states. So, if your child isn’t fully into physical education and you want to help her in a way beyond what a gym teacher would, here are ten tips to help her become more accepting of her training.

Make it fun and attractive

Constant stimuli surround the young. Their phones can connect them with anyone almost instantly and they can access action-packed movies in seconds. It’s hard to compete with so much input, so engage your teen in exercise that uses her brain as much as her body. Enrolling in MMA classes could be just what you need to challenge them competitively and physically. Or maybe a workout routine with a high-volume workout that includes multiple reps and different sets. Challenge them to complete as many rounds as possible in a given period so that each session is a step up from the last.

Emphasize real-world benefits

Let them know why they should raise their heart rate and strengthen their core. Almost all students are expected to spend time sitting at a desk working on a computer. Staying in the same position for hours can lead to neck and back pain. Remind your student that tightening their abdominal muscles will not only make them look good, it will also help reduce their risk of injury.

change the point of view

Boredom is real, so instead of following the same pattern day after day, throw in some adventures. Swimming, hiking, and in-line skating require mental focus, endurance, and strength. Check the forecast, if it looks like a good day, get out there and look at conditioning through a different lens. Avoid straining your joints and ligaments by alternating heavy impact with light throughout the week.

Get a little creative

Treasure hunts and card games are smart approaches to get someone moving. Prepare clues and place them in secret places in the city or in your garden. Then share the first clue and watch the fun and cardio as your teen tries to figure out where to find the next clue.

Remember the value of rewards

Combined with the scavenger hunt or on its own, don’t forget to reward kids for doing their best. You can include a gift card or coupon in one of the clue envelopes, or you can set achievement goals like twenty-five push-ups in two minutes to reinforce the importance of a job well done. Note that don’t overdo this idea, so its impact isn’t lost.

Combine forces with other homeschoolers

Reach out to families or groups in your community to see if they would be interested in forming a club or team that could serve as a physical education opportunity. Pickleball is growing in popularity and is a fun way to combine aerobics and body mechanics.

find the zen

Incorporate time to rest and relax. A consistent yoga practice can calm the mind and stretch tense muscles. You can learn more about the benefits of yoga by researching the different styles and intensities.

Put the responsibility back on them

If you encounter resistance to exercise, turn the table over and return the property to the complainer. Let them research various programs and tell you what they would like to do. Encourage them to find out what some of their favorite celebrities or athletes do to stay in shape and use it as a model.

What? Did you say a puppy?

Admittedly, this suggestion isn’t for everyone, but if there’s room in your life to adopt an unwanted pet, it could be the perfect catalyst for creating an exercise enthusiast. Puppies need daily walks.

Don’t be discouraged if physical education is the least desirable activity in your teen’s day. Try one or two of these clues and be positive.

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