Our kids are not as active as they should be. U.S. health studies report that fewer than one in four children get 20 minutes of vigorous activity every day of the week. Less than one in four reported getting at least half an hour of any type of physical activity every single day. Poor diet and lack of exercise is now second only to cigarette smoking as the leading cause of preventable death in the United States.

In addition, an extensive study recently found a direct connection between students’ fitness and academic performance. Achievement scores were found to increase with increased levels of physical fitness.

These studies show compelling evidence that both mental and physical health improve through increased physical activity. We want a healthy future for our community, and that means we must assist our youth in developing habits of regular physical activity. This is accomplished by making physical activity fun and enjoyable for all ages and abilities.