ABSTRACT

Exercise has to be really enjoyable to withstand the endless time pressures that most young people are under today. Sorting out where motivation is coming from can help in putting an exercise slot back into the week's routines. There is a whole series of factors that combine together to reduce the likelihood of exercise during the teenage years. Most teenagers do not get the recommended amount of an hour of moderate physical activity each day - only a third of girls and just under half of boys manage this. Even though teenagers may tell their parents how old-fashioned, out of touch and uninspiring they are the chances are that they will end up copying a few habits by the time they reach adulthood. Whilst some parents are glad of the peace and quiet of a teenager sleeping until lunchtime at weekends, it is worth keeping track of general routines and establishing a minimum level of activity for everyone.