Who We Are
The Palo Alto Medical Foundation Adolescent Interest Group created the "We're Talking Teen Health" Web site as a resource for Bay Area teens. Our goal was to create a resource teens can use to learn more about issues relating to their physical and emotional health. Along with doctors, psychologists, educators and nutritionists, we count local teens and preteens among our writers.
The teens in our group remind us that there is a broad spectrum of teen behavior — from "abstainers" to "heavy risk takers." All have something to say, so we include all points of view. "We're Talking Teen Health" contains vocabulary that teens can understand and relate to, including current slang.
Come visit us and let us know what you think.
What's New?
• Bullying module developed by PAMF teens, preteens and staff.
• Seeing Eye-to-Eye about Eye Make-up: An Ophthalmologist's View
• Dangers of Eating Disorders
• Easy Etiquette
• Teens and the Media
• On Your Own: First Semester at College |
New This WeekTips for A Successful Exercise Routine
Regular exercise helps you look and feel better. Activity also helps you avoid depression, stress and boredom. Experts say just 30 minutes of activity a day keeps you healthier. Here are some tips for starting a successful fitness program.
Build up your activity level gradually.
Start slowly. For example, if you to begin walking regularly, start with a 10- to 15-minute walk, three times a week. As you become more fit, you can increase the sessions to every day.
If you choose a fairly vigorous activity, begin each session slowly. Allow a five-minute period of stretching and slow movement to give your body a chance to "warm up." At the end of your workout, take another five minutes to "cool down" with a slower exercise pace.
Listen to your body.
A certain amount of stiffness is normal at first. But if you hurt a joint or pull a muscle, stop the activity for several days to avoid more serious injury. Most minor muscle and joint problems can be relieved by rest and over-the-counter painkillers.
Pay attention to warning signals.
While regular physical activity can strengthen your heart, some types of activity may worsen existing heart problems. Warning signals include sudden dizziness, cold sweat, paleness, fainting, or pain or pressure in your upper body just after exercising. If you notice any of these signs, stop the activity and call your doctor immediately.
Check the weather report.
On hot, humid days, do outdoor activities during the cooler and less humid parts of the day. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and drink lots of water before, during and after the activity. On cold days, wear one layer less of clothing than you would wear if you were outside but not exercising. Also wear gloves and a hat.
Keep at it.
Unless you have to stop your regular physical activity for a health reason, stay with it. The health rewards of regular physical activity are well worth the effort.
For more information see PAMF's Exercise Web site. |
