How do I get my sister to exercise and lose weight?

I am 5'-6" and 155 pounds. I work out a lot and run 30 miles a week, (6 miles in the morning at 6am, then off to work/school). I am 18. My sister is 13. She is 5'-1" and weighs 175 pounds. She is obese and according to the doctor, at risk for diabetes. This is BAD. I was overweight as a kid too but not like her. I took the liberty of designing a work out routine based on her schedule. I also made it based on her current physical ability and will increase it each month. It is quite simple as most of the time she sits down on the couch or in front of the computer. I don't force her to do more than what she can't do but I always push her to do what she can. She just refuses to exercise. Some days she will just outright ignore me and lock me out of the room. Sometimes she will get really upset. She is upset about the fact that she is indeed overweight, but I want her to realize that she was not born obese and that she has the power to lose this weight. I know that girls her age are very emotional so what do I do?

How to Lose Weight Naturally

Recommended Answer:

You can't make someone lose weight. If you're pushing her like that, you could damage the relationship you have with her, create an aversion to fitness in general and create psychological issues. You pushing her is almost the same as you calling her fat and making fun of her, especially with a girl that age. You're daily scheduled routine may not be the right type of thing for her. Getting her interested in something entertaining, like sports or riding a bike, may work better. Talk her into playing or doing something like that with you. Be encouraging while you are doing whatever you choose. Don't be fake about the encouraging behavior, but make sure you say enough to keep her from getting discouraged if she doesn't do well at first. Don't show off. That will make her feel like she is terrible by comparison. If she gives up on one, find something else. You can even say that you want to get closer to your little sister, and you want her to play a game with you. I hope it works out.

Other Answers:

• Are you a guy? Because 155 lbs. for a girl at 5'6 isn't exactly what I'd call petite either.
• I too am an exercise freak. I run/erg/lift approximately 2 hours every day and but my sister isn't as athletically motivated. I've tried to get my sister to exercise and when I try to force her to exercise she wants to exercise even less. Try not to force her. Invited her to do a fun exercise and start small. I'm 5'8" 140 pounds and row on scholarship for a top 20 division 1 team. When I exercise with my sister opposed to a 6 mi run we go on a 2 mile run/walk. Get on her level. And make it fun!Don't motivate her by focusing on the health problems but as doing something fun. You're making her feel insecure. Good luck!