I have a 13yr old girl as a new client. Needed suggestions on fun safe fitness activities for her
Hello Shaw Madson,
That is a challenge.
Did you ask her what she enjoys or is willing to try? Has she ever seen something that would make her want to get up and give it a go?
Music and friends, I agree, are wonderful motivators.
Maybe you could involve the family in some games and drills, taking it outdoors on good days.
Rollerskating, kayaking, bicycling, hoola hoop, tennis, badminton, ping pong, etc.
Does she have a pet to walk, which could make things interesting.
Take care,
Natalie.
It seems to be a common theme, but that age group can sometimes be a challenge depending on who really wants the training: child or parent.
I’ve had success with giving them a choice. I come prepared with different workouts or different exercises. Both serve the same purpose and meet the areas we want to work on based on the assessment, but it will give her a choice in her training.
I’ve also found that its important to get to know this age group. Ask them questions about what they’re interested in, their hopes, dreams, what they’re working toward, etc. I use the warm-up and cool-down to do this. It helps to create a bond and lets them know I’m interested in them and not just what their parents are saying.
Most 13 year olds won’t follow “traditional” exercise workouts.
You say “make a significant changes for her”? Does she want to change?
I am assuming her parents hired you, I would speak with them and find out if they are pressuring her and then speak with her alone and narrow down her goals and motives.
I would get the entire family involved if possible.
Find a sport or activity she likes such as swimming, tennis, bike riding,dancing, martial arts, jump roping etc and work off of that. If she already detests exercise at the age of 13 this will be a challenge for you in many ways.
Think in terms of short attention span, keep things simple and fun.