Interest in sedentary activities and a decrease in physical activity have been documented as a significant component to the increase of obesity. Overweight and obese adolescents show lower interest in physical activity and a decreased positive attitude toward participation. Girls express dissatisfaction with their body image and a feeling of self-consciousness due to their weight. The purpose of this study was to develop a better understanding of what can be done to motivate adolescent females to be physically active. Thirteen middle and high school girls, ages 12-17 years participated. Group “A” included six middle school students, ages 12-14 years and Group “B” included seven high school girls ages 15-17 years. Data sources included observation, interviews of each age-specific focus group, personal physical activity journals, and Harter's (1985) Self-Perception Profiles for Children. Inductive analysis of interviews transcripts and journal entries were used to identify trends and deductive categories based on the constructs from Harter's Self-Perception Profiles for Children (1985) were used in the analysis via constant comparison. Results indicated that both focus groups placed great importance on the social and team aspect of physical activity. Surveys and self reported journals indicated that a team environment is significant and an influential motivational factor for physical activity. All but one participant mentioned the significant connection between social importance of group interaction and overall enjoyment in the activity. Both groups expressed the importance of ‘the group' for encouragement and motivation. The high school journals revealed a trend of using purposeful physical activity as a way to feel good about one's mental perception of life. Overall, the girls expressed value and importance in and on being physically active and described their experiences with physical activity as positive and essential for maintaining good physical health and a healthy lifestyle. Girls in the present study perceived physical inactivity as boring, and expressed great disappointed when unable to be physically active. It [physical activity] makes me want to be more active. The study group suggested that by eliminating stereotypes and providing strong female role models adolescent females can become empowered to believe in themselves and in-turn become more physically active. The insights gained from the results of this study allow for the opportunity to change the perception of young females, develop healthier goals and sanction their role in physical activity in their communities and their future as healthy active women. Keyword(s): active participation, high school issues, obesity issues