Introduction
Despite well-documented evidence that physical activity is beneficial to children, average fitness levels of US children have declined. Lack of physical activity has been associated with childhood obesity. We evaluated the effects of a physical activity program in the elementary school classroom on health outcomes.

Methods

It only takes a small change. Instead of telling yourself you can't, tell yourself you can.

The President's Challenge is a program that encourages all Americans to make being active part of their everyday lives. No matter what your activity and fitness level, the President's Challenge can help motivate you to improve.

The purpose of Let's Move In School is to educate youth about all of the benefits of a physically active lifestyle and to ensure that every school provides opportunities for quality physical education and activity.

The Washington Post

By: Robin Givhan
Posted April 10, 2010

The fresh-faced elementary-school children were nowhere to be seen.

There were no bright spring vegetables being harvested, no celebrated athletes or actors for added sizzle.

Childhood obesity or excess weight threatens the healthy future of one third of American children.

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation maintains a comprehensive list of articles about childhood obesity.

http://www.rwjf.org/childhoodobesity/digestlist.jsp

You can sign up for a regular summary by email.

The Wall Street Journal, March 1, 2010

By:  Shirley S. Wang

Obese children as young as age 3 show signs of an inflammatory response that has been linked to heart disease later in life, researchers said, in a finding that is likely to further stoke concerns about childhood obesity.

Read the complete artical here

This statewide motivational fitness program is endorsed by the Governor and offered at no cost to all elementary and middle schools. 

At a time when obesity is a top health issue, Shape Up offers schools an activity-based educational experience which promotes healthy lifestyles.

As school-based health centers look for opportunities to build meaningful partnerships with school faculty and administrators, this program offers a timely and important call to action that everyone can embrace.

HealthNewsDigest.com - February 2010

By Penn State

Depression raises stress hormone levels in adolescent boys and girls but may lead to obesity only in girls, according to researchers.