Teenagers spend around 35 hours in school per week. When not in school, teenagers are typically doing homework or, hopefully, engaging in some sort of physical activity. Many teenagers, however, do not engage in any physical activity and wind up staying out of shape for extended periods of time. Research from the American Heart Association (AHA) has shown that the effects of being unhealthy can have an even greater risk in the future. According to the AHA, "without regular physical activity, the body slowly loses its strength, stamina and ability to function well." This can lead to diseases such as heart diseases and obesity.
With hours of studying and focusing on social activities, it can be easy for teenagers to become stressed and overwhelmed. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) has shown that "exercise is considered vital for maintaining mental fitness, and it can reduce stress. Studies show that it is very effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration, and at enhancing overall cognitive function. This can be especially helpful when stress has depleted your energy or ability to concentrate."
Stress can haunt teenagers throughout the day: when they are taking tests, when they are interacting with others, and when they are engaged in commitments such as after-school activities. Self-esteem and self-respect can also be damaged because of stress. According to WebMD, "improved self-esteem is a key psychological benefit of regular physical activity. When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain." Stress can also plague someone's ability to get a good's night sleep. Regular exercise has been proven to improve sleep and release tension that could effect the ability to fall asleep.
A day filled with stress is a day wasted. When someone is able to live without stress, they can focus on the things that matter most to them. They can have an easier time prioritizing and focusing on responsibilities. In general, they will be more positive and get better grades. There are many ways to manage stress, but daily exercise is a rewarding and reliable method.
Sources:
American Heart Association (AHA)
Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
WebMD
