FIT FOR LIFE
HELPING YOUNG
PEOPLE TO GET MOVING
Find out how the YMCA is supporting the health and wellbeing of young people .
oung people have some of the lowest levels of
Y physical activity , with 80 per cent of 12 to 17-yearolds failing to meet the daily minimum physical
activity requirements .
We should all be worried , as sedentary behaviour is associated with obesity and poor-health-related outcomes later in life including diabetes , heart disease , high blood pressure and some cancers . The World Health Organisation lists physical inactivity as the fourth-leading risk factor for death worldwide .
Being active , on the other hand , has been proven to have a significant positive impact on health and wellbeing , and there is evidence that suggests adolescents who are physically active have improved self-esteem and lower levels of stress .
Staying physically active is a lifelong pursuit , and developing healthy exercise habits in adolescence can assist in forming patterns of behaviour that carry through into adulthood . While there are many opportunities available for young people to get active , it ’ s usually in the form of an organised sport such as football , netball or cricket . While sports can help form social connections , not everyone enjoys this environment . Team sports often have designated training nights and the time commitment can be too much for some teens and their families to juggle with school , homework and other after-school activities .
The YMCA Youth Membership was developed to give young people an alternative to traditional sports , help them cultivate healthy habits , and get fit in a safe environment at their local YMCA-managed recreation centre .
Sarah Harrington , Centre Manager at the Ashburton Pool and Recreation Centre , said the Youth Membership helped young people and their families fit exercise into their busy schedules .
‘ We know how important regular physical activity is . The Youth Memberships means teenagers can engage in regular physical activity in a safe environment and build healthy habits that will help them grow into healthy , happy adults .’
‘ We make sure the workouts are age appropriate , and they can work out in a solo or group environment . Our qualified instructor also meets regularly with each youth member to make sure they ’ re getting the support they need to reach their health and fitness goals ,’ she said .
Youth Memberships are available at select YMCA managed centres . To find out more visit victoria . ymca . org . au
SPRING 2018 YMCA HEALTHY LIVING MAGAZINE 19