G

Goal setting: it helps when we know how to set goals that are Challenging, Obtainable, Specific, and have a Timeline (COST).

E

Enjoyment: we tend to do things we like to do, and to like what we’re good at.

T

TV, video and computer games: too much of this makes less time for physical activity.Unless we get smart and combine our TV watching or game playing with exercise. Kids can learn activities to do while they watch TV, and games, such as Dance Dance Revolution® can be promoted as a healthier alternative.

A

Attitudes: we tend to want to do things we feel good about.

C

Confidence in abilities: when we have confidence in our abilities to perform a skill or activity, we are more likely to try the activity (even if we’re not as good as we think).

T

Time and other perceived barriers: the more obstacles we find (real or not), the easier it is to find excuses for not being active. Learning to problem-solve and plan around obstacles helps.

I

Inclement weather: when the weather is bad, we are less likely to be active. Learning to problem-solve and plan alternatives helps.

V

Various perceived benefits: we are more likely to exercise if we perceive that there are both short- and long-term benefits. The benefits that matter to young people include: fun with friends, improved appearance, improved mood, increased skill levels, and increased fitness and energy.

E

Educated about HOW to be active: we tend to be more active when we know where to go and what to do in our community.

F

Family and peer influences: we tend to be influenced by our family and friends. If they are active, we are more likely to be active. It helps to be aware of this and to plan ways to get family and friends involved.

O

Older, you become less active as you age: even though this is a trend, it can be changed if we learn how to do activities that we can continue after high school and throughout our lives. Some of these activities include: yoga, swimming, tennis, dance, golf, skiing, kayaking, rock climbing, in-line skating, self-defense, and basketball.

R

Recreational programs lacking: when programs are lacking in our community, we are less likely to be active. Individuals must work together to solve this one!

L

Lack of safe spaces in neighborhood: when we live in neighborhoods where it’s not safe to be active because of traffic or crime, we are less likely to be active. To solve this problem we need to be aware of all our options, and we need leadership in the community to help change things.

I

Intrinsic motivation: when we are motivated from within ourselves, we are more likely to stay active. This type of motivation is influenced by many things, including our confidence in our own abilities to do an activity and to find solutions when obstacles get in our way.

F

Facility and equipment access: lack of access to facilities and equipment makes us less active. Again, learning to problem-solve and find alternatives that are realistic, is crucial, especially for those of us who have limited access to facilities and equipment.

E

Economic status, culture and gender: poor people, those who are part of certain cultures where physical activity is considered unimportant or a waste of time, and girls are less likely to be active. Different approaches would need to be used to push for changes in each group, but they include increased opportunities, encouragement, and education.