Importance of exercise in young adults and teens
Dr. Dante Marconi, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Shore Physicians Group
Exercise and fitness are essential for overall health and well-being, and this is particularly true for teens and young adults. During these formative years, the body is developing and growing rapidly, and regular exercise can help to promote physical, emotional, and mental health.
Regular exercise is essential for maintaining physical health in teens and young adults. Exercise can help to strengthen bones and muscles, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Children and adolescents who engage in regular exercise are more likely to maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce the risk of developing health problems later in life. In addition, regular exercise can help to improve body composition by increasing muscle mass and reducing body fat. Exercise can also help to improve immune function, which can reduce the risk of illness and infection. This is particularly important for those who may be exposed to a variety of germs and viruses in school or other social settings.
Exercise can also have a positive impact on emotional health. Regular exercise can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve mood and self-esteem. This can be particularly important for those who may be dealing with academic or social pressures. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural chemicals in the body that can help to improve mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Exercise can also help to provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem, particularly when goals are achieved or new physical challenges are overcome. Regular exercise can also have a positive impact on mental health in teens and young adults. Exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function, memory, and attention, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline later in life. In addition, exercise can help to reduce the risk of developing mental health problems such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. This is particularly important for anyone who may be at risk for these conditions later in life.
Regular exercise can also help to improve social health. Exercise provides an opportunity to connect with others and build social connections, which can improve overall well-being. Exercise can be a fun and social activity, whether it’s playing team sports, joining a gym, or taking a dance class. These activities can provide a sense of belonging and social support, which can be particularly important for teens and young adults who may be navigating new social environments or dealing with peer pressure.
It is important for teens and young adults to engage in exercise safely to prevent injury. It’s recommended that teens get at least one hour of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day. Young adults should aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week. It’s important to start slowly and gradually increase intensity and duration of exercise over time. It’s also important to use proper equipment and safety gear, such as helmets for biking or skating, and to warm up and cool down before and after exercise. It’s also important to choose activities that are appropriate for age and fitness level. Young athletes should be encouraged to participate in a variety of sports and activities to prevent overuse injuries and burnout. Resistance training has been proven to be safe in children and adolescents if done correctly. Prior concern existed for possible injury with resistance training, but these injuries typically occurred due to improper technique, excessive loading, poor equipment, and lack of adult supervision. Resistance training can improve cardiovascular health, manage weight control, strengthen bone, improve motor coordination, and help prevent sports-related injuries.
In conclusion, exercise and fitness are essential for overall health and well-being in teens and young adults. Regular exercise can help to promote physical, emotional, and mental health, and improve social connections and well-being. By engaging in regular exercise, teens and young adults can build a foundation for a healthy lifestyle that can benefit them throughout their lives.
Dante Marconi, MD treats patients at the Shore Physicians Group Division of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, located at 710 Centre Street in Somers Point, NJ. To make an appointment with Dr. Marconi, call 609-365-6280.
