Exercise & Sports / Question
Published: September 25, 2000
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am a 14-year-old girl. Whenever I exercise or run I get very tired within 2 minutes. Please tell me what to do.
Signed: Tired In Two Minutes
Dear Tired In Two Minutes,
TeenHealthFX is glad to hear that you are attempting to exercise because it is an important part of everyone's health. We are unsure as to what your weight is or what type of health history you have, such as asthma or allergies, that might affect your breathing capacity. Because of this, you should really get your doctors approval to begin an exercise program. He/she can also give you some of the hints we have outlined below.
Exercise takes practice; you will not be able to run a marathon overnight. But do not get discouraged because you seem out of breath. When exercising, it is important to keep going even though you feel tired at first. TeenHealthFX does not mean that you should keep going until you collapse, but gradually work your way up to exercising for at least a half-hour at a time. The Best Time to Exercise tells you when might be a good time in the day to try and exercise along with information on how often and the types of exercise you should have in a good program. For instance if you are on your feet all day working, or feel tired after school, this is not the best time because your energy level is already low. Try exercising in the morning before school or after a quick nap.
When you find a good time that suits you, begin in small intervals. Try doing some type of aerobic exercise (walking, running, rollerblading, biking) for about 10 minutes at least 4 times a week for a week then slowly increase your time over a month. Your body needs to begin building endurance, or the capacity to do exercise. Besides aerobic exercise you should also try weight training. By toning your muscles, you will increase your strength and the ability to exercise longer.
TeenHealthFX wants you to know that getting into shape takes time and we are thrilled that you are making an attempt. The most important thing to remember is that it takes time, and if you stick with it, it will become easier and more fun each time. Also try to be creative with the types of exercise you do, do not do the same thing everyday, or you will get bored and are more likely not to keep doing it.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Among young people ages 12-17, prescription drugs have become the second most abused illegal drug, behind marijuana.
