Physical activity for 13yo bookworm

[Anonymous]

I have a bookworm who is basically either reading or dancing. During the snowstorm a couple weeks ago her studio was closed and we offered to let her read her kindle on the treadmill or watch tv while she walked. Frankly that’s what I do for exercise a lot of the time and I really enjoy it. Making it easy and enjoyable is key.

[Anonymous]

This sounds like me as a kid. I kind of liked aerobics (and dance) but I’m not sure that’s a thing anymore. I think I would have liked going to a gym and using the machines on my own in anonymity.

FWIW I am a fit adult who runs and does tons of Pilates but I didn’t get into any of that till I was 30 and needed stress relief.

[Anonymous]

Martial arts are for self-defense too. IMO, not a choice.

horseback riding
rollerblading/skiing

Jumping rope is actually a thing:

[Anonymous]

Yoga, Pilates. Some reformer studios will let 13 year old participate. (Jillys in DuPont does cause my 13 year old is into it but it’s too pricey).

Aerial Yoga! We had my daughter’s birthday party at a studio and it was a big hit. In DC, Endless OM but I know there are several places in MoCo as well.

[Anonymous]

Dance class? Not the competitive dance craziness but some one off classes at Joy of Motion

[Anonymous]

Sounds a lot like me as a kid. I did eventually join cross country in high school, mostly for socialization. Was never particularly good at it, but it was no-cut and fairly low key. I actually wish my parents had pushed me more and am semi-jealous of those who have lifelong fitness related hobbies like golf, tennis etc. I started tennis and golf as an adult and took some lessons, but have never made much progress with either. Just started pickleball.

It is hard with teens, but I really do think she is young enough that it is still reasonable to force her to choose to do an activity for now (who knows, maybe she will take an interest in something). If she still doesn’t, at least you tried!

A lot of the suggestions have been good. Beginner tennis lessons maybe? Recreational dance classes? Golf? All of those are usually widely available. See if anything is offered at your local YMCA, JCC, community center etc. At her age, these classes tend to be geared towards beginners. Our local JCC used to offer a “teen girls fitness” type of class that sounded great. Not sure if they still do.

[Anonymous]

Yoga.

Dog walking. Get a bigger dog. Shy quieter kids often have deep connections to animals. She will walk the dog bc it’s care for this other being that needs it, so will feel productive rather than forced exercise to her.