Helping Your Teen Get in Shape This Summer

If your teenager expresses a desire to start exercising or working out more during the summer, it’s important to approach the situation with caution. While many parents may initially feel excited about their teens wanting to be more active and reduce screen time, it’s essential to understand the underlying reasons behind their fitness goals. Eating disorder experts warn that setting fitness goals can potentially lead to trouble for some teenagers, considering the increasing prevalence of eating disorders and body dissatisfaction among youth.

Instead of panicking right away, parents should start by having an open and curious conversation with their teens about what “getting in shape” means to them. Signe Darpinian, Wendy Sterling, and Dr. Shelley Aggarwal, authors of “Raising Body Positive Teens: A Parent’s Guide to Diet-Free Living, Exercise, and Body Image,” suggest that maintaining open communication encourages dialogue and keeps the door open for further discussion.

The next step is to understand the motivation behind their desire to pursue fitness. It’s important to distinguish whether their motivation is based on appearance or an internal goal. When negative body image becomes the driving factor, parents may be tempted to support their teen’s plans to get in shape. However, it’s crucial to note that intentional weight loss is not sustainable and can be extremely dangerous. If parents feel unsure about how to support their child’s body image, seeking consultation with a weight-neutral therapist, a Health at Every Size (HAES)-aligned professional, or a certified eating disorder specialist is recommended.

Parents should also ensure that their teens adequately fuel their bodies when pursuing athletic goals. This lowers the risk of developing eating disorders and improves performance. Rest days are often forgotten but are essential for reducing inflammation, muscle repair, and recovery. Athletes should be encouraged to include rest days in their training routine.

Technology, such as fitness trackers and social media influencers, can also influence a teen’s approach to exercise. Number-driven metrics can disconnect athletes from their body’s natural cues and lead to unhealthy exercise habits and comparisons with peers. It’s crucial for parents to keep an eye on their teens’ exposure to fitness-focused content on social media and ensure they are following healthy practices.

If parents notice signs of food restriction, weight loss, fatigue, changes in mood, or strained relationships, it is important to act quickly. Seeking support from the child’s primary care physician can provide additional guidance in monitoring their physical and mental health.

In a society that values weight loss and thinness, it can be challenging for parents to recognize problematic exercise or dietary changes. However, parents who embrace the idea of healthy weight gain during the teen years and prioritize their child’s overall well-being can promote healthy development.

Being informed about eating disorders and maintaining open lines of communication can help protect teenagers. Parents should approach discussions about bodies, food, and exercise in a way that builds connection and trust. Unconditional love and acceptance from parents, along with the option to seek professional help if needed, are vital for teenagers who face constant pressure to conform to societal ideals of the “perfect body.”