(Noella Rosentrater, a seventh-grader at Woodward Middle School, shares how physical routine has helped her during this stay-at-home period).

I believe in staying active. Staying active is like climbing a mountain, both physically and mentally. I believe in the determination of one who chooses weights and a run over TV and video games.

I believe in the one who perseveres and gives their best all the way to the finish line. I believe in the one who takes on a challenge.

Staying active is key for the body, heart, mind and soul. It brings me joy and invigorates me, but also demands discipline, mental toughness and commitment. Staying active enhances emotional, physical and mental well-being.

I began thinking about the topic of exercise in 6th grade, around the time I first got into volleyball, but I hadn’t really pondered it up until now. Being forced to stay at home has pushed me into finding new ways to continue to keep my body and mind in shape.

With all this extra time on hand, it’s easy to disengage from life. It’s easy to make excuses for why you can’t turn off the TV to go workout. That’s why I stay on a routine. I think of ways to turn grueling, intense work into fun and creative activities that I will look forward to.

Instead of being engrossed by thoughts of how laborious and tiring it will be, I try to think of all the health benefits and positive things that will come out of my practices.

Author Napoleon Hill once said, “Your only limit is your mind.” I interpret that as your mind is the only thing that can tell you to stop, so tell your mind to go!

Staying active is one of the best ways to stay healthy. According to Mana Medical Associates, keeping up physical fitness can save money, increase your life expectancy, reduce risk of injury, and improve quality of life and health. “Regular exercise and physical activity promote strong muscles and bones. It improves respiratory, cardiovascular and overall health. Staying active can also help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk for Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and reduce your risk for some cancers.”

Just as staying active builds my muscles and mental toughness; it also gives me confidence and higher self-esteem. The more I exercise and train, the better I feel, because I know and feel that I’m growing stronger. I believe in staying active. “The best view comes after the hardest climb!” (Anonymous)

Editor’s Note: This I Know is a Bainbridge Youth Services platform for youth voices. The monthly column showcases student beliefs, most often through their own stories. BYS is a nonprofit organization that offers free, confidential mental health counseling, free tutoring and job services to youth 13 to 21 years old. Check out our website: www.askbys.org.