How may I encourage my overweight daughter to participate in sports/clubs?

[Lucy]

I have a 15 year old daughter who is struggling a bit with weight issues. I do not think it is because of genes or diet (we only buy healthy foods), but rather a lack of motivation with exercise.

I have tried to enroll her into teen fitness programs of all kinds, but she refuses to go. I am tired of trying to encourage and force her to at least try out these programs. She just won't listen. She also refuses to participate in any school activities or sports.

My elder daughter, who participates and has done very well in many sport teams, has even agreed to take or drive her and her friends out for bike rides, recreational swimming, walks, or teach her the skills to play some sports, but she will make a big fuss and sometimes have a temper tantrum, so she never ends up going.

All she does when she comes back from school, is log into MSN, talk to her friends, do her homework, sit in her room all day and occasionally goes out with her friends.

I just want her to become more active, healthy and more involved with the school community. I can see she's not happy, but she also refuses to do anything about it. Please help, I do not know what to do anymore.

Any suggestions?
I have tried to encourage her to participate in all sorts of sports and activities with her friends, but it seems that the only thing she wants to do with her friends is hang out at the mall or see a movie.

 

[Ms. Elizabeth]

Your younger daughter may be feeling that she is no good and that her sister is better than her because she is more athletic and skinny, therefore making her prettier. This may be the real reason behind not excersising.

I'm sure you are not making her feel this way purposley or that her sister is either, but people tend to compare themselves to others. I know that I am constantly comparing myself to other people. Its a natural thing. She is probably comparing herself to the media as well. It could be things at school too.

Make sure she knows that she is beautiful on the inside and the outside and that you just want her to participate so she can be healthy, happy and have fun.

For starters, suggest that the two of you go for a walk, go skiing, or swim at the pool. Some people just don't have it in them to do team sports. I know I don't. But I'm still pretty active.

Ask her what she'd like to do. Letting here make the decision will make it seem like less of a "forced" situation. A weekly dance class, a daily walk, and a couple times at the skating rink or pool could make a huge differance.

Best wishes!

 

[Ms. Elizabeth]

Your younger daughter may be feeling that she is no good and that her sister is better than her because she is more athletic and skinny, therefore making her prettier. This may be the real reason behind not excersising.

I'm sure you are not making her feel this way purposley or that her sister is either, but people tend to compare themselves to others. I know that I am constantly comparing myself to other people. Its a natural thing. She is probably comparing herself to the media as well. It could be things at school too.

Make sure she knows that she is beautiful on the inside and the outside and that you just want her to participate so she can be healthy, happy and have fun.

For starters, suggest that the two of you go for a walk, go skiing, or swim at the pool. Some people just don't have it in them to do team sports. I know I don't. But I'm still pretty active.

Ask her what she'd like to do. Letting here make the decision will make it seem like less of a "forced" situation. A weekly dance class, a daily walk, and a couple times at the skating rink or pool could make a huge differance.

Best wishes!

 

[Mar :)♥]

Show her shows like the Biggest Loser.
And say that's her future if she doesn't do something about it.
Sign her up for soccer or swimming. Everybody loves soccer and swimming. Or get her to do it with friends.

 

[kady]

her feelings are hurt. She wants you to accept her for who she is. I know! Maybe you could make it fun! Maybe a wii fit? Do not take her to a weight loss camp. Thats beyond mean. Plus it wouldn't work if she doesnt wanna do it.