Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Physical Activity's Role in the Let's Move Program


Childhood obesity rates in the U.S. have never been higher. In the last thirty years, childhood obesity has tripled. Nearly one third of the children in America are overweight. Obesity puts children at risk for diabetes, asthma, heart disease, high blood pressure, and cancer.
Fortunately, awareness of this issue is on the rise, and many people and organizations are trying to implement change. One program is Let’s Move, initiated by Michelle Obama herself. This program is dedicated to ensuring healthier living for children in all aspects of their lives. The program provides dietary information, statistics, PE resources, and even suggestions for after school program activities.
Changing Times
Thirty years ago, the world was a different place. People did not have the convenience of technology at their fingertips. Walking was a primary form of transportation. Kids actually played outside willingly and enjoy themselves. Even regular household chores used to take more work.
Computers have made things easy for us, and perhaps we have become a bit spoiled by the ease of technology. Suffice it to say, kids don’t play outside as much. After school play consists more of video games than running, biking, or exploring.
Physical Activity
Staying active is an essential part of a child’s health and well-being. Regular exercise or activity can help prevent a number of diseases and keep kids from leading an overly sedentary life. Children need at least an hour of moderate to vigorous activity every day. An hour a day isn’t much if you consider the average teenager spends about seven and a half hours a day watching TV, using the computer, and playing video games.
Below are some important components of Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move initiative.
·      The best place to start is at home. If your kids see you engaging in physical activity, they will want to join in, too. Enjoy physical activities together for fun family time. This could consist of running, biking, swimming, or spending a day at the park together. Encourage your kids to join a local sports team. The opportunities are endless. Remember to teach your kids that exercise isn’t a bore, and support them every step of the way.

·      Schools should maintain strong physical education programs that closely follow national curriculum. Instructors should be well-trained and provide creative, fun means of engaging children in physical activity.

·      Communities can help by creating safe walking/biking routes to and from school. Establishing parks and playgrounds offers opportunities for play, and creating a safe space will encourage kids to partake in physical activity.

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