1 in 4 Adolescents Fail to Meet Physical-Activity Guidelines: CDC

A recent study shows that as few as 1 in 4 teens meet today's fitness guidelines, based on results from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

These results showed that 75 percent of kids and teenagers alike are not getting enough daily exercise nor eating the right foods to get a well-balanced diet.

The information is based on a 2012 National Youth Fitness Survey in which 800 participants self-reported their daily health and exercise activities, as well as submitted physical exams. Fitness guidelines involved in the study were established in 2008 for 12 to 15-year-olds, with recommended activities that raise the heart rate and perspiration.

Though researchers note that many are not getting the recommended daily amount, the good news is that since the guidelines were established, 25 percent of teens are now participating in more outdoor activities, including various sports.

No only does this provide the body with adequate physical exertion, but it also helps with the supplementation of sun exposure to moderate levels of vitamin D production.

Still, the study authors are hoping that they can push for better results as time goes on. 

"We can aim to do better than 25," said the study's lead author, Tala Fakhouri, an epidemiologist with the National Center for Health Statistics, part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, via USA Today.  

"We hope to see these numbers improve," he added, via U.S. News and World Report.

However, the researchers point out that that a continuation of healthy habits over the years can help solve the problem. 

What do you think?