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Fit Girl Friday: Giving Life Change

Friday, December 02, 2011

	In Other News: Susan Wright: Inspiring us all at Gainesville Health and Fitness Wednesday, February 22, 2012 X-Force Blog, Tuesday 7:00am Tuesday, February 21, 2012

If you turn to any media outlet this time of year the odds are you’ll see a commercial for some new, edgy toy that is sure to please the child on your list.
 
But take even a quick, scrutinizing look at these advertisements and you’ll see one striking commonality: there’s not much activity associated with these products.
 
Sure, the ads claim creativity will be improved and entertainment will be provided, but it’s the advertiser’s job to make you think their product will revolutionize your child’s life. They’re not always honest.
 
Before you buy a child a gift this year, don’t ask what the gift will do for them, but what this gift will do to them.
 
You may know that childhood obesity has more than tripled in the last thirty years. More than one third of children and adolescents were overweight or obese in 2008. But did you know that seventy percent of children ages 5 to 17 had at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease?
 
The reason is inactivity, plain and simple.
 
Like so many adults battling the same issues, kids are eating too much and exercising too little. The consequences are staggering. Children and teens are being diagnosed with Type II diabetes, a disease that historically targeted overweight adults. Overweight children (and adults) are also at a higher risk for depression and multiple types of cancer, and overweight and obese children most likely become overweight or obese adults.
 
So how can the gift-giving season change that? It’s simple.
 
By getting children up, outside and interested in doing things that keep them moving they can become the health individuals we all want them to be. Even an hour a day can have drastic impacts.
 
Instead of fighting other parents for the latest video game or “indoor” toy, consider investing into your child’s health and future with something they can turn into a healthy lifestyle— like a bicycle, roller blades, a new pair of tennis shoes or other athletic equipment.
 
You could consider investing in coaching lessons so your child can learn a new sport, or give them a membership to a gym or athletic club where they can become a part of a healthy, social network. The possibilities are endless.
 
We have the power to shape the future of our children. The only way to shape a positive, healthy future for the next generation is to instill healthy values that transcend the cultural lure of sedentary activities that lead to illness and decreased livelihood. It’s not only possible, but it’s knocking at your door asking for it to happen.
 
Start a new tradition this holiday season and change a child’s future forever!
 
I’d love to hear your Holiday traditions and ideas for healthy gifts this season! Send me your comments at fitgirl@ghfc.com!
 
 

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