The majority of kids prefer to engage in less physical exercise following a full day of school since they are most often, if not always, swamped with schoolwork, hanging out with friends, and use their after-school time talking on the phone. Lack of physical exercise causes weight issues, lethargy, and the most prevalent cardiac diseases, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. If Westside High School students included physical exercise in their after-school routine, they would benefit greatly. They may go for a stroll or start going to the gym, as well as adopting healthier options.

Students at WHS will see significant changes in areas beyond their physical health. By reducing the strain and stress that we experience during the school day, it also benefits their mental health, boosting mental capacity and memory. By adding physical exercise to their daily routine, students will feel more motivated and focused, which will improve their academic performance.

Esteban Garcia, one of many students at WHS who take their physical health seriously, has demonstrated how participating in physical activities after school has improved his quality of life. Esteban reacted in a brief interview about the difference between not exercising and beginning to work out: “I only played video games, ate, and went to bed when I didn’t exercise because it made me feel awful. It wasn’t beneficial to me. I reached a point where I just felt like I didn’t know what to do with myself, but ever since I started exercising, I feel better than ever. I have more energy, more confidence, and I feel like I’m getting closer to my goals every day. I also have more discipline, as even when I don’t feel like exercising, I still go because I don’t want to return to how I was.”

I did a follow-up question with asking what benefits he has experienced from exercising every day, and what habits has he developed as a result. He responded: “I look much better than I used to.” “I feel more energized, stronger, and driven to keep going. It has also inspired me to work harder at other things, like sports, etc. and simply strive to be the best version of myself.” He continued by speaking about the habits he developed. “Some habits I’ve picked up are that I have to work out every day, and if I miss a day, I have to arrange a day to make up for it. Another habit is that I log everything I eat in order to attain my goals.”

Fitness for physical activity should be achieved with the proper mindset. Failure will result if you are made to do something you dislike, but your attitude and perspective on your health will change once you see the results, the change, and the rewards. It will not only help you but it will also help those around you live healthier lives. So use that time in physical activity to help your future health rather than grabbing your phone and binge-watching your favorite program in bed or hanging out with friends and eating junk food. Everyone’s time is moving forward. Your long-term life will be determined by what you committ to now.