Letters from the Switched on "Getting Healthy" issue

Dear Switched-On,
I totally like this girl in my class, the guys she hangs out with are bigger then me and I want to know a quick way to “beef” up, any suggestions?
Signed,
Shane

Dear Shane,
Before you rock out the 50 pound weights make sure that you are doing this for yourself and not only to impress someone else. You also need to realize that it takes a long time to see results. You will not wake up the next day from a workout and see a whole new you. So be patient. Working out and getting in shape may also boost your confidence so when the next girl comes along you will not feel so insecure. But overall, make sure you are doing it for you, and to make yourself feel good first.
Signed,
Switched-On

Dear Switched-On,
I am a junior in high school. I am 5'5 and weight 165. I was wondering if there is a way to tell if I am overweight?
Signed,
Alisabeth

Dear Alisebeth,
There is a great way to easily tell if you are overweight. It involves finding your BMI, Body Mass Index. This calculates your weight and height together to see if you are in a healthy weight range. Check out the LINKS PAGE to find a BMI calculator online. Overall you shouldn't be too concerned about your weight as a number, but more focused on how you feel overall, how much exercise you get, and making sure you are eating healthy.
Signed,
Switched-On

Dear Switched-On,
I have been paying football for the last 5 years. I used to play most of the game and now I am lucky even to get a few seconds of playing time. I love being part of the team but I feel it is stupid to be on a team that I never get to play on. What do you think I should do.
Signed,
Roger

Dear Roger,
Even though you may not see it now, being part of a team is more important then how much game time you have. You are not only getting a healthy workout during practices, but you are also developing teamwork skills, friendships, time management skills, leadership, and great experiences that you will one day look back on and appreciate. Although it may hurt to not get as much playing time as you would like, stick with it, try your best and just see what happens.
Signed,
Switched-On