More Play - Fewer Munchies

Together, with YMCA centers in Maryland and the Greater Washington area, we are teaching kids about the prime cause of childhood obesity — not enough play. Obesity among children, ages six through 12, has nearly doubled in just 10 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control. This ominous statistic has been traced to a lack of activity.

Over the next three years, we are contributing $1,000,000 to get kids moving again.

Through YMCA programs called Fit-N-Fun in Central Maryland, and Physical, Healthy and Driven (PHD) in Washington DC and Northern Virginia, kids ages six through 12 are encouraged to adopt life-long habits and interests to combat inactivity.

Four Steps to Lifelong Heath

The two programs focus on four steps to better health, including:

• Individual health and fitness assessments
• Creative and non-competitive exercises
• Good nutrition and healthy diet education
• Family involvement to encourage progress and encourage weight control

The program is "delivered" year round in the Washington area by the YMCA's Kids Health Mobile - an RV loaded with gym equipment, a rock climbing wall, health assessment equipment and a nutrition corner. It promotes youth wellness at schools, health fairs, camps and special events. A similar vehicle - the Y’s Fit-N-Fun Mobile- is active in Maryland.