Written by Rita Catolino, B.A. Health and Fitness Expert, Certified Trainer & Best-Selling Author
Photography by Paul Buceta
Hair & Makeup by Monica Kalra
With the right approach and some creativity, you can inspire your teen to join you in your workouts, and even get excited about hitting the weights. Creating a habit that will, hopefully, last for life.
Lead By Example
This is the first step in getting your teenager involved in your fitness routine. Show them you are committed to staying active and healthy by consistently working out and prioritizing exercise in your daily routine. Invite them to join you for a workout session and demonstrate proper form and technique when lifting weights. By showing them that fitness is an essential part of your life, they are more likely to follow in your footsteps and prioritize working out in their own lives.
Make It Fun And Engaging
Create a workout playlist with their favorite music, set up a friendly competition, or introduce new and challenging exercises to keep things interesting.
Set Personal Fitness Goals
Help them learn to reach with measurable improvements, and celebrate their achievements along the way. By emphasizing the sense of accomplishment in weightlifting, your teenager will feel proud and motivated, making them more likely to stay engaged in their workouts.
"Training together has easily become the highlight of my fitness routine."
Educate Your Teen
Teach them about the benefits of strength training. Explain the significant impact weightlifting can have on their overall health and well-being, including increased muscle tone, improved strength and endurance, and enhanced athletic performance. Tie in the mental benefits so they know the gym is somewhere they can manage stress, too. By emphasizing these benefits, your teenager can feel more informed and motivated to incorporate weightlifting into their fitness routine.
Create A Supportive And Encouraging Environment
Offer encouragement and praise for your teen’s efforts, no matter how small. Provide guidance and support as they learn new exercises and techniques, and be patient as they build their strength and confidence in the gym. By creating a positive and supportive atmosphere, your teenager will feel empowered and motivated to continue their fitness journey.
Involve Them In The Decision-Making Process
Empower them to have a say in choosing the types of exercises and workouts they enjoy, as well as the frequency and duration of their workouts. Encourage them to take ownership of their fitness goals and help them create a personalized workout plan that aligns with their interests and aspirations. By involving your teenager in the planning process, they will feel more responsible for their fitness journey and be more likely to stick with it in the long run.
Invite A Friend
Peers play a significant role in your teen’s life. Create a “hang-out” at the gym instead of the Mall. Working out with a friend will allow them to feel more comfortable in the gym setting, give the kids some time to chat, and create a new bond.
With the right approach and mindset, getting your teenager involved in your fitness routine and excited about weightlifting is totally possible. You can inspire your teenager to join you in your workouts and develop a lifelong passion for strength training and in the meantime, you may get re-inspired yourself!
