Kids get fit : a non-sport based alternative to improve elementary children's fitness

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Authors
Forsythe, Kimberly
Advisor
Powell, Jason A.
Koontz, Nicole
Issue Date
2015-05
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (B.?)
Department
Honors College
Other Identifiers
Abstract

The obesity rate in children continues to rise in America despite the vast knowledge that is available on how to prevent and reverse obesity. As a result, the number of children and adults that suffer from obesity-related complications, like Type II Diabetes, continues to rise as well. To add to the problem, physical education classes are being cut from schools, sports are becoming more expensive to participate in, and more families are eating out and on the go. To combat this issue, I have created "Kids Get Fit", an afterschool program designed to educate and improve the health of the entire family, with a focus on children in third through sixth grade. Children who are not able or do not wish to participate in sports would be able to increase their daily activity by participating in this program. The children will read a story about a child just like them who struggles with making healthy choices, participate in many types of group fitness activities and games, and learn about what it is like to make healthy decisions. Parents will stay connected with one another by engaging in an online blog and reading a monthly newsletter. The goal of the program is to instill healthy habits that will be kept for a lifetime.