Gym Tips for Teens: Making the Most of the PF Teen Summer Challenge
by Steven Auger
Thanks to the warm weather and ample sunlight, summertime offers a ton of opportunities to enjoy your favorite activities! In between hanging with friends or working a part-time job, focusing on fitness can be a great way to make the most of your summer.
In addition to the physical benefits that can come with working out, a well-developed routine can also bring wonderful brain benefits for teens, including mood improvement, stress relief, and increased confidence. Check out these seven gym tips for teens looking to improve their health through fitness!
1. Prioritize Packing Properly
To help ensure that you get the best workout possible, you need to make sure your gym bag is stocked with the essentials! Don't forget your water bottle — hydration is important during and after your workout. Headphones are also key. If you plan on showering, bring toiletries and a towel. It's a good idea to carry a hand towel on the gym floor as well so you can keep the sweat out of your eyes.
Also, remember a change of clothes! Who wants to put on sweaty gym clothes after a relaxing shower? And last but not least, pack a lock for your locker so you can safely store these items away.
2. Dress for Success
Wearing proper gym attire is important to getting a good workout. Gym clothes should be comfortable enough to move freely — not too tight, not too loose. And ditch the cotton! Sweat plus cotton isn't a good match.
With the rest of your gym attire squared away, don't forget about the shoes. The importance of gym shoes extends far beyond matching your outfit! During your workout, support for your feet will be key, especially for the arch and Achilles areas.
3. Move to the Music
When it comes to gym tips for teens, music is high on the list. What's cardio without a super playlist to motivate you through the peaks and valleys of the bike or treadmill? Try making different playlists to help motivate you during different workouts!
4. Bring a Friend!
You know what's better than getting fit? Getting fit with a workout buddy! A workout buddy can do wonders for accountability and motivation, and they might even be able to help you develop a new routine. And they won't have an excuse not to join you because all teens ages 15-18 can work out at Planet Fitness for free from May 15 to September 1, 2019!
5. Have a Question? Just Ask!
When you first start working out, the gym can be a confusing place. That's why many gyms employ super friendly trainers who know their stuff! Should you do cardio or weights or both? How do you correctly do a pushup? Maybe you want to try circuit training to get a feel for a few different exercises! Trainers have the answers and they are there to help, so if you have any questions at all, just ask!
6. Set Smart Goals
Have you figured out what you want out of your fitness journey? If not, it might be time to set some goals. Try to make them as specific as possible. Establishing clear fitness objectives that are also achievable can help give you the structure you need to stick to your routine!
7. Go at Your Own Pace
If you go at your own pace, you'll reach your goals when you're ready! Find a gym that provides a welcoming atmosphere to all of their members no matter their level of experience. Ease yourself into working out with realistic goals and be sure to ask for help when you need it.
Once you've properly packed your gym bag, dressed for success, and set some solid fitness goals, you'll be ready to crush your first day at the gym! As always, please consult with a physician prior to beginning any exercise program. See full medical disclaimer here.