I look around and see many over-weight people. According to The Obesity Society of America, more than 25 percent of teens in America are obese. Eating healthy isn’t the only way to become physically fit. I believe that by participating in high school athletics, teens will develop good exercise habits. This in turn, could help lower the number of obese teens in America.

Researchers from Cornell University reported that, in the typical high school gym class–where there are a few jumping jacks before a halfhearted game of softball, students are active for an average of just 16 minutes. I believe that gym classes in high school are not enough. I think that more teens should be involved in high school athletics, where there is conditioning and strenuous drills. Being a three-sport athlete, I still find myself a little out of shape at the beginning of each sport. That makes me wonder: how out of shape are other teens who are not involved in any physical activity?

Doctor Gabe Mirkin, a graduate from Harvard University, said, “Being involved in athletics can help a teen get more physically fit.” Participating in athletics can help America lower the number of obese teens.

KayLie Hanson, junior, PHS Pillager, Minn.