My mother recently got a new membership to a gym and even at middle age, strives to be in the best shape of her life and exercise even for the smallest amount of time every single day. This brought about some questions in which I asked myself, “How much more different could her generation be from mine?” In modern times, everything is easily accessible through the internet, fast food and takeout (with free delivery) is only one phone call away and simply getting out for a nice walk or running errands is just something people seldom do these days.

While high schools make physical education a requirement for their school curriculum, a lot of students hardly exercise independently once that requirement is fulfilled. As I approach my college years, I dread the “Freshman 15” in which Freshmen in college gain weight their first year due to their inability to eat the right foods in addition to the amount of food available on or near college campuses. I hope to not fall victim to this “Freshman 15” and learn to make the right eating and exercise choices.

Although going out to be active may not sound too appealing to most people, it’s not as difficult as it sounds. No one expects you to run a triathlon or swim Olympic miles every day! Even the smallest of things can make a difference. Going out for a jog a few times a week, walking your dog, or enjoying the fun summer sun with friends is a great way to start! Opting for a walk to school instead of driving there is not only a healthy choice but helps to save the environment as well. There are literally countless ways for you to start being healthy right this very moment!

Here are some cool sites that you can visit with more information on how to be active and stay healthy starting right now:

You can always visit the "Get Moving" portion of Youth Space.

And you can visit the "Eat Healthy" portion of Youth Space aswell.

Some additional sites include:

http://kidshealth.org/teen/food_fitness/\

http://kidshealth.org/parent/nutrition_fit/center/nutrition_center.html?gclid=CNz_g_jQp6ICFRNZiAod6CweRA

http://www.teengrowth.com/

http://www.hify.org/ 

Now, what are you waiting for? Stop reading and go outside and be active!

By: Sam