FOR TEENS – Movement for Joy
This information is a brief introduction to physical activity and specific recommendations for you in your teenage years. There is more information on the community site on exercise and musculoskeletal considerations, head over there to learn more:
Musculoskeletal Postural Advice – CF Physio
Being more active can maintain or improve lung health, strengthen your heart and muscles, and make you feel better about yourself. It can also help with improving mood, sleep quality, concentration and long-term health benefits.
- For health benefits, you should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity every day.
- Your physical activity should include a variety of aerobic activities, including some vigorous intensity activity (an activity that makes you breathe harder but you should still be able to have a conversation).
- On at least three days per week, aim to participate in activities that strengthen muscle and bone. These activities should be weight-bearing activities including jumping, skipping, weights/resistance etc.
- Activities that promote thoracic (chest wall) mobility for example bat and ball games, rowing, archery are also helpful
- Find joyful movement, choose activities that you can look forward to, combine them with music, or meeting up with friends, or together with your family. Join a local sporting club or social roster in a team. And don’t forget to set up rewards for yourself, to celebrate the successes of getting moving!
- Establishing good bone health at this age is really important, here is some helpful information on how and why this important: Skeletal Central – An educational hub for educators and adolescents in Years 7-10 to promote awareness of bone literacy across the lifespan.
Please remember it is important to talk to you physiotherapist or healthcare provider before starting any new exercise to make sure it is safe for you, to prevent injury, and to get the most benefit out of the activity you choose.
