Screens, Sneakers, and the Secrets of Teen Fitness

Not too long ago, I had a lively chat with an amazing public health persona about the growing gap between kids and physical activity. It was eye-opening and I, advocated ( and possibly bribed) for some kids to try it out.

To buttress her point we'll be talking to Dr Sudhir Sethi a star pediatrician, board certified lifestyle physician and expertwitness with a knack for blending wit and wisdom.

As a physiotherapist, I’m always on the hunt for ways to bridge the “I’d rather scroll than stroll” mindset that’s gripping today’s adolescents. Dr. Sethi, had some gems to share, so I laced up my metaphorical sneakers and dove into the conversation. Here’s how it went:

Me:Hi Dr. Sethi, You're a well experienced consultant and have seen kids grow into adulthood. Why do you think teens more attached to their phones these days?

Dr. Sethi: Habits.

Kids are swapping kickabouts for clickabouts. Recreation used to mean soccer in the park. Now? It’s Call of Duty on the couch. Outdoors has turned into indoors, and group fun is outpaced by solo screen time.

Me: Do you think technology is the arch-nemesis?

Dr. Sethi: Let’s not villainize it entirely—tech has its perks. But, yes, gaming, social media, and streaming services have made physical activity less appealing. Kids are moving less, and it’s showing in their health.These are the barriers from a paediatrician's POV.

Me: Fair enough. Many would say it's solitary issue but our previous guest entirely disagreed. Do you also believe adults part of the problem?

Dr. Sethi: Bingo. Parents are glued to their screens just as much as their kids.

Remember when running errands was a thing? That was exercise! Now we’re Ubering our way through life, barely breaking a sweat.

Me: Alright, give me some hope here. Any success stories where activity saved the day?

Dr. Sethi: Tons! There are 6 pillars of lifestyle medicine - Exercise or movement, Diet, Sleep, Stress management, avoiding substance misuse, and social connection ( ref IBLM)

Sports, in particular, create a ripple effect. A child who plays is likely to eat better, sleep soundly, stress less, and avoid bad habits like junk food and substance misuse. Movement isn’t just medicine—it’s a lifestyle.

Me (adjusting my physiotherapy hat): Speaking of lifestyle, what’s our role as healthcare professionals in changing this narrative?

Dr. Sethi: Be the change you want to see. Lead by example. Keep advocating for movement, and share relatable success stories. Teens need role models who walk (or run!) the talk.

Me: What about strategies? Any programs that work?

Dr. Sethi: Absolutely! In the UK, family park runs are a hit.

They’re affordable, accessible, and bring everyone together. Access to healthy food, affordable leisure facility, encouragement from family and school and early introduction to outdoor way of life. Schools and communities need to make sports and outdoor activities a no-brainer—accessible after hours, on weekends, and affordable for all.

Me: That is promising especially when the media portrays leisure for children as mostly gamified. In other words, Gamification is trending. Flash in the pan or future-proof?

Dr. Sethi: Wearables have been a game-changer, no pun intended. Gamification can work, but only if it stays engaging long-term. A Fitbit today shouldn’t end up as a fancy paperweight tomorrow.

Me: What practical tips do you have for families or caregivers trying to get active with their kids?

Dr. Sethi: It’s all about prioritizing and normalizing activity:

-Spend time outdoors as a family.

-Make sports and movement part of your daily routine.

-Advocate for community initiatives that make physical activity accessible and affordable.

Above all, show your teens that being active is cool.Longest living populations in the Blue Zones don’t go to fancy gyms and pump iron. They move as part of their daily chore, eat and live simply, socialise and smile.

The solutions to these challenges are rooted in what we do every day—encouraging movement, fostering healthier habits, and setting an example.

You got it - this is their secret of longevity.

Me: Okay everyone, let’s get moving (literally and figuratively) because the children are our future. With the incoming new year how are you tackling physical activity in your home or community for the kids?

Hit reply—I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Special Thanks to Dr Sudhir Sethi for his time and contribution. If you're interested from learning from his extensive knowledge and experience on lifestyle medicine and the reversal of chronic illness with diet and lifestyle,check out his linkedin!

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