Benefits of working out with teens

The following is a post by Kris Bales of Weird Unsocialized Homeschoolers.

An unexpected development has occurred this summer. After years of being slightly-interested bystanders of my running, my kids have decided that they want to join me. That excites me because not only do I recognize the health benefits for them, but I can also see a great many benefits of working out with teens.

I need to offer the caveat that, at the time of this writing, we’re only in the planning stages of running together. We’ve got one more summer camp to complete first. That being said, one of my kids has already joined me for a run and all are enthusiastic about starting.

So, what do I see as the benefit of working out with teens?

Built-in accountability partners

When you’re working out with your teens, you’re not the only one who notices a missed workout. It’s harder to skip a workout when you know that it’s not just yourself you’ll be letting down.

Plus, in our case, it would be difficult for them to go without me, so I would be depriving them of the opportunity to work out if I were to choose hitting the snooze button over lacing up my running shoes.

A more consistent routine

For many families, working out together can mean a more consistent routine. I prefer to run in the mornings when it’s cooler. Even in the winter, I’d rather get my run out of the way early so I know it’s done for the day.

My family has decided that, since we’ll be up early to run anyway, we might as well tackle school earlier so that we can enjoy more relaxed afternoons. If we see this through, it’s going to mean a huge lifestyle change for my night owls and our previous late-starting habits.

A healthier family

We live in a very sedentary society and my family is no exception. Especially as teens who don’t really go outside to play anymore, there is the temptation to sit around watching too much TV, playing too many video games, and texting friends.

By running together several days a week, we’ll all be healthier and I don’t think that the health benefits are limited to the physical.

Improved focus and mental outlook

Many studies have shown that regular exercise improves a person’s mental health. Not only does exercise improve mental acuity, but studies also indicate that it releases dopamine, the “feel good” chemical in the brain. This reduces stress and feelings of depression.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve noticed being in a much better mood after a run. That can only be a good thing for a homeschooling family, right? I mean, a whole family who has run out their grumpiness before starting school for the day? Sign me up for that!

Credit for P.E.

My oldest child played volleyball when she was in high school, so it was easy to count that for P.E. credit. However, my son isn’t involved in organized sports and my younger daughter does gymnastics, but currently only once a week. Running together will be a great way to build credit for P.E. on their high school transcripts.

Given all the benefits, it’s no wonder I’m excited to begin working out with my teens. Plus, telling you about it now provides some added accountability, right?

I’ll let you know how it goes.

Do you work out with your teens (or younger kids?) What do you do and how has it positively impacted your family?