According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 81% of adolescents (age 11-17) do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity. Physical inactivity is one of the leading causes for disease mortality. People who are insufficiently active have a 20-30% higher risk of death than those who exercise on a regular basis. On their physical activity guidelines, teenagers should have 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily, and should include activities that strengthen their muscle and bones at least 3 times a week.
A study conducted by BMC Psychology in 2025 also found that physical activities positively correlates with subjective well-being for high school students as it adversely affects academic stress and positively influences sleeping quality.
Ways to promote teenager wellbeing includes:
- Go beyond traditional PE curriculum
- Empower student leadership
- Educate and inspire
- Create an active school environment
- Utilize technology
- Organize competitive events
- Collaborate with parents and the community
- Provide inclusive opportunities
- Become active role models for students
Reference: Cheng, R., Yang, L. & Kang, SJ. A study on the relationship between high school students’ sleep quality, physical exercise, academic stress, and subjective well-being. BMC Psychol13, 180 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-025-02497-3
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