America's children are overweight. Why? Because WE are!
Two-thirds (66%) of Americans are overweight according to the
Centers for Disease Control/Prevention, with 15-30% of the
children either overweight or dangerously close to being
overweight. That means that nearly 200 million Americans fall
into the overweight category. We are setting a horrible example
for our children.

According to a study conducted by Weight Watchers International
Inc. and the American Health Foundation, 25% of American
children are now officially overweight, and the youngest are
especially at risk. These extra pounds are more than just a
passing phase; another ADA study suggests that half of obese
children will become fat adults.

"Obesity among children is increasing at an alarming rate, and
the health consequences are very severe," confirms Karen
Miller-Kovach, RD, chief scientist for Weight Watchers.
Billions of dollars every year are spent on medical bills by
overweight/obese patients due to (preventable) obesity related
illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.

What's behind the growing number of children who are now
overweight? "Lack of exercise accounts for more than 50 percent
of the problem," says Miller-Kovach. She also adds, only 30
percent of the problem is due to overeating or choosing the
wrong types of foods. So, let's resolve to better ourselves,
set the example, and get our children moving again.

Last week, I offered a solution -- a free 45-Day Beginner
workout -- as part of the Get Started Again with Exercise
article -- for free download. Now, you can get one here for
your children too. This ebook has workouts and ideas on how to
get kids moving (as well as yourself) in the television room,
at the playground, or at the high school track. There are
plenty of fun activities to do to burn calories.

Many people who are dedicated to making a difference are
opening up children's fitness franchises all over the United
States. If you are lucky to have indoor playgrounds in your
area or want to build one for yourself, check out Rolly
Pollies®, which was developed by two former military officers.
This is an example of kid's fitness at its finest.

Children love these places and learn from a very early age that
physical activity needs to be a part of a daily routine.


About The Author: Stew Smith is a graduate of the U.S. Naval
Academy, a former Navy SEAL, and author of several fitness and
self defense books such as The Complete Guide to Navy SEAL
Fitness, and Maximum Fitness, Common Sense Self-Defense, The TV
Watcher’s Workout & The SWAT Workout. Feel free to email
Stew@stewsmith.com for answers to your questions or visit
http://www.StewSmith.com for more ideas, fitness programs, and
books.

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