HEALTH

Hey girl, first thing’s first, when it comes staying at a healthy weight, there are two key ingredients: a healthy diet and exercise. It sounds like you’re a little too hooked on numbers, a fixation that if too extreme can lead to some pretty bad habits for your bod: over-exercising and eating disorders, for example.

Keep in mind that at you age, there is no exact correct weight—only an appropriate range, since you’re still growing. My suggestion to you is to step back and realize that a) you’re healthy and not going to get fat and b) your bod is growing, and it’s so important now more than ever that you take care of it. That means feeding it and exercising in moderation. Remember, being too skinny is a bad thing, too.

The Numbers Game

When it comes to determining the right weight to be at, it’s important to look beyond the number on the scale: Consult your doctor and look at your BMI (body mass index) for your weight and height. To calculate your BMI, just check out this nifty guide.

What it means? If you’re barely in the normal range for weight, you don’t have to worry at all about getting fat. Being borderline, however, means taking care of yourself so that you don’t lose any more pounds.

Growing Up

Your bod is going through some major changes right now. You’re growing taller. Your bod is changing from that of a kid’s to that of an adult’s. As you grow taller, the number on the scale may be a tad bit higher, but it’s not because you’re getting “fat;” it’s not bad weight.

The taller you are, the more weight you need to support yourself at that height. Understand that passing 100 on the scale doesn’t mean you’re big, it means you’re becoming an adult. So eat healthy and exercise regularly. Treat your body well because it needs nutrients—fuel—more than ever as it works through puberty.

Exercise in Moderation

Exercise is a powerful thing. Not only can it help keep your bod in its best shape, but it also acts as stress reliever. Aim to exercise in moderation: cheerleading is a great start. Know too that you don’t have to be in a sport to work out.

Try running around your neighborhood. For example: All it takes is a pair of sneakers! Once you’ve found a routine you like, don’t overdo it. I run every other day. It gives my legs a break and bod a chance to rest on the days in between. My bod’s in great shape because I don’t overexert it. Remember, too much of a good thing can become bad.

That said, in all, sweetie, you’re just fine the way you are. Don’t let the numbers get the best of you. Focus on taking care of yourself, and you’ll be the picture of health.

check these out!

• Presenting the Girls' Life 2024 Period Awards winners
• Here's how to clear your skin from the inside out
• Healthy social media habits to adopt this month
• We just found a 20-minute workout for every day of the week

you might like these

• How to glow up your sleep routine
• 5 ways to rebuild your confidence after rejection
• A week's worth of easy meal inspo to level up your school lunch
• Easy smoothie recipes to make your skin absolutely glow