School Programs and ObesityA report from Trust for America's Health, released in August of 2006 stated adult obesity rates continue to rise in 31 states. Mississippi was the heaviest state while Colorado was the least heavy state. But what was most revealing is this fact, "All states fail to meet the national goal of reducing adult obesity levels to 15% or less by the year 2010." It is a simple truth, overweight or obese children become over weight or obese adults. One of the key recommendations of the report was that a comprehensive approach is needed and that school-based efforts are critical. The report states, "School-based efforts are needed to strengthen physical fitness curricula and improve the nutritional content of all foods and beverages sold on school campuses. The report also noted something that many physical education professionals have known for quite some time. Physical education requirements are often not enforced or are not funded. The truth is that physical education has taken a back seat to the push for academic excellence. There was a time when physical education was a regular part of the school week. Today, many classroom teachers are expected to take on that role and there is little time to devote to the effort. That's why the GYMTRIX curriculum was created. It can be a resource for classroom teachers who need to engage children in physical activities that build skills for a healthy lifetime. They can pick one or two activities a week and do those in the classroom. I believe that incorporating these activities can help teachers start to turn the tide and reduce childhood obesity.
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