Physical activity

For most teenagers out there, to find the time to endure any sort of physical activity is near impossible whilst trying to tackle our everyday hectic lifestyles.

I personally find it very hard to find the time to even motivate myself to get off the social networking addictive sites and get myself to the gym or even go for a run. 

There always seems to be an excuse that seems reasonably acceptable as to why I don't need to do any activity.... chemistry test, UCAS deadlines, coursework dates, headache, stomach ache, seeing friends,too tired, too expensive, my iPod isn't charged... lets be honest the list is really never ending!

Yet them clever science whizz people in ridiculous glasses and blissfuly white lab coats are always hammering on to us about the unlimited benefits of exercise.  So grab a few friends head down to a zumba class or set yourself a goal to a new fit and healthy you. 

Below are a few facts and tips I have found during my project as extra research on a how to gain optimum health and fitness.... 

•  helps reduce body fat or controls your bodyweight.
• You will meet people with a similar interest to yourself and are likely to gain many new friends.
• gain the satisfaction of developing your fitness and skills.
• It will help fight depression and anxiety.
• You will challenge yourself and set goals.
• It strengthens bones
• It aids coordination, balance and flexibility.
• It improves stamina and concentration.
• You are more likely to have a healthy lifestyle 
• Experience winning and loosing feelings 
• Release of endorphins ( those good mood feelings, stops those moody teenage swings )
• Anti-aging effect on appearance

"Today class we shall be looking at Endorphins..... Sir, why are we looking at dolphins?"

Endorphins are hormones in the brain associated with a happy, positive feeling. A low level of endorphins is sometimes associated with depression. During exercise, plasma levels of this substance increase. This may help to ease symptoms of depression, and instead leave you with a positive good feeling. Studies have found that physically active people were half as likely to be depressed as non-active people.

Exercise also boosts the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that send specific messages from one brain cell to another. Though only a small percentage of all serotonin is located in the brain, this neurotransmitter is thought to play a key role in keeping your mood calm.