As a youth trainer, I’ve seen many young girls step away from sports. In fact, I was one of them.
This is not just a phase. Studies show that girls drop out of sports at about twice the rate of boys during their teenage years.
So what changes?
For teen girls, social pressure becomes especially loud during these years. Appearance, comparison, and social media can shift their focus away from what their bodies can do and toward how their bodies look. Sports that once felt fun can start to feel intimidating or uncomfortable, especially if they do not see themselves as the “best” player on the team.
But staying active during the teen years is incredibly important. Regular movement helps girls manage stress, build resilience, and develop confidence.
One powerful way to rebuild that confidence is through strength training. Strength training allows girls to focus on personal progress instead of comparison. Small wins like holding a plank longer, completing a push up, or learning a new movement can do wonders in showing young girls just how powerful and capable their bodies are.
As a young girl, I found my confidence through strength training as well. It helped me realize that strength was something I could build through hard work and dedication.
I truly believe one of the most important things parents can do is emphasize how strong girls’ bodies are. Social pressures often place so much emphasis on beauty standards and body size. But when girls begin to see themselves as strong, that confidence often carries into every other part of their lives.
By Paytra Gessler, Certified Youth Fitness Trainer, Certified ISSA Fitness Professional
For more great tips or to find out more about our services, contact Bonita@EnergeticJuniors.com, or call 212-879-1566.
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