Puberty and being active
Puberty is a time of major physical and hormonal changes in the body. Hormones are chemicals that are produced by glands in the body and help regulate various bodily functions, including growth and development.
During puberty, the body produces higher levels of hormones such as oestrogen and testosterone, which can lead to physical changes such as growth spurts, changes in body shape, and the development of secondary sex characteristics such as breast development in girls and facial hair growth in boys.
Hormones
In girls, oestrogen plays a crucial role in the development of secondary sex characteristics such as breast development and the onset of menstruation. It also contributes to the widening of the hips and the development of curves.
In boys, testosterone is responsible for the development of secondary sex characteristics such as facial hair growth, deepening of the voice, and the growth of muscle mass.
While these hormonal changes are necessary for normal development, they can also cause a range of symptoms such as mood swings, acne, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns. This is where physical activity can play a role in helping manage some of these symptoms.
Physical activity
Aerobic exercises such as running, swimming, and cycling can help improve mood and reduce stress, which can be particularly important during the emotional ups and downs of puberty. These types of exercises can also help increase cardiovascular health and build endurance.
Strength training exercises, such as weightlifting and bodyweight exercises like push-ups and squats, can help build muscle mass and improve overall strength. This is especially important for boys who are experiencing a growth spurt and need to build muscle to support their increasing height and weight.
Flexibility exercises such as yoga or stretching can help improve range of motion and reduce the risk of injury during physical activity. These exercises can also help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial for overall mental health and wellbeing.
Regular physical activity can help improve mood and reduce stress, which can be particularly important during the emotional ups and downs of puberty. Exercise can also help improve sleep quality, which is important for overall health and wellbeing.
Physical activity can also have a positive impact on physical changes that occur during puberty. For example, weight-bearing exercises such as running or jumping can help build bone density and prevent osteoporosis later in life. Strength training exercises can help build muscle mass, which can help with overall strength and body shape.
In addition to the physical and emotional benefits, regular physical activity can also help establish healthy habits that can last a lifetime. It’s important for young people to develop a positive relationship with physical activity early on, as it can have a long-lasting impact on their overall health and wellbeing.