COMMENTS
The situation is out of control and just freakin' ridiculous. The problem is we've got fat, unhealthy, out-of-shape, excuse making people making the big decisions here.
If teachers are to be considered major role models for children then I think they should be held to a fitness standard. They should be fitness tested regularly and either be docked pay or suspended until they can become better examples.
At the same time, parents need to WAKE UP! Letting your kid be fat and unhealthy is a form of child abuse in my opinion.
Niki, this is a great post. Would you be interested in using it as a basis for a guest post on my blog?
Great post! I am still amazed at how ineffective present governments are at implementing programs to combat childhood obesity and the epidemic that is upon us.
Education and leading by example has to start from the top-down and if parents aren't willing to incorporate fitness into their families routines, then they aren't helping matters.
As a father, husband and friend, I owe it to everyone I know to educate them on the benefits of being physically fit has on both the mind and body.
Niki, Fitness Town accepts the challenge and we are excited to be part of the solution rather than the problem.
Great post! Please continue to share whenever you can.
Regards,
Dai Manuel
Chief Operating Officer
Fitness Town Inc
daimanuel@fitnesstown.ca
Growing obesity rates are a huge problem all over the world and I feel that the most important area to deal with is the current obese population.
If the parents know the importance of being healthy their lifestyle will be taught to the children. We need to lead by example, unfortunately the older we are the harder it is to break our bad habits.
I have a few overweight people in my life and I'm not really sure how to help and motivate them to change their ways. For me being surrounded by health professionals every day has helped a lot in changing my habits and mindset. I may not always pick the healthy food option or do something active but I know that I should and the guilt usually gets me to try make up for it later on. So I try to be a better example for my friends and loved ones and remind the ones that aren't exaclty on the healthiest path that there is another way they can do things. Hopefully they realize that all I really want is for them to happy and healthy enough to stick around for a long time.
Kids don't play as much these days. Everything is loaded with sugar and fat. Parents are stressed out and sleep deprived with little or no time to spend playing with their kids. Here in BC it's a little different but mostly in developed countries you just don't see families being active together anymore. Parents really need to stop giving their kids sugar! It's brutal! You walk down the street and see parents handing their kids arm fulls of candy and pop to keep them quite. Then they go home and serve up quick and easy solutions for dinner. Packaged foods that are little more than fast food. Parents need to step up to the plate! Say no to sugar. Play with their kids. Get involved at school. Help other families who don't know any better. If that's too much to ask then they shouldn't have kids! A little harsh perhaps but that's how I feel.
Until we as a nation stop fretting over "rights" and begin to instead focus on "responsibilities" this issue will go unchecked.
The Bible states in 1 Corinthians 6:12-13, "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful. All things are lawful for me but I will not be brought under the power of any. Foods for the stomach and the stomach for foods, but God will destroy both it and them."
Too many people have become slaves to their stomachs by choice. They want to blame others (food industry, parents, whatever) for their plight without taking full responsibility for their own actions. This is reprehensible.
The rise of obesity and consumer debt go hand in hand in this country, because we do not practice delayed gratification or personal responsibilty. And we're teaching it to our children.
We're each given the power to choose but once the choice is made we become a slave to that choice.
A better quality question for people to ask would be, "Do I want to be a slave to this choice?"
But that would require personal responsibility.
In addition to the problems you stated about about kids activity patterns, there's also increased specialization in sport at an early age. Kids are 'weeded' out of sport more quickly than they once were and for those that are not successful in their athletic endeavors, there are few places for them to go. As fitness professionals, I feel we need to get out in our communities and create opportunities for kids, all kids, to be successful and to help them learn to enjoy physical activity. The phys ed that is offered needs to be, and is beginning to be, revamped - kids don't need to learn to play volleyball or badmitton, they need to move.
As for current obese population, I think personal responsability is the only thing that will lead to long term change. I don't think the initial objective needs to be on weight loss for this population but more on getting active. Recent studies have shown that among obese populations, those that exercise have a lower incidence of disease than those who don't. And in terms of taxes, I don't know how effective either would be but I do believe that those that create an incentive to be healthy, rather than a punishment for not, sends a clearer message.
As someone who works exclusively with overweight people I see the many issues that derive from this problem. I think the work needs to be done in prevention and education and at a very young age, although the whole family would have to be on board. Having a son of 2 years, I am noticing that many TV shows are now including sing song about exercise and eating vegetables so "they" are getting better at trying to instill these principals in young minds. However, that is aimless, as many have mentioned here, if their role models are not following the same principals. I highly doubt a kid is going to ask for some broccoli instead of fast food when their parents are rolling through the drive through; even though the child was jamming to "Do the Broccoli Dance" that morning on Sesame Street. I agree with Nicki though, there is nothing more sad than seeing a child in poor health. It is a great post but I am not sure what the solution is when the US has such large populations with severe social and economic problems. I don't believe economics is an excuse; it just is what it is. Very poor people just don't have the means or the education so I believe the problem stems way, way back. They eat crappy, cheap food to survive. Let's face it; produce and organic meats are expensive and almost a luxury. I know I ate a lot of KD in my 20’s solely based on finances, certainly not because I loved it. I am not saying these people have no choice but they are doing what their role models are doing and what they have always done, so the cycle continues! Like I said, I am not sure what the solution is, I just know I need to keep doing what I am doing and I am glad you are all doing what you are doing.
Baby Steps....
This is terrible, but my opinion is that, the government always focus on a quick fix or instant change such as the tax increase. We need to do what works, have more active lifestyles, not just increasing P.E activity but general exercise playing games at lunch time, not sitting on a computer. The food is an obvious problem, but i'm sure the government could implement healthy recipes and food standards in schools that must regulated and monitored. Thats the direction I think we should be going anyway!
There is no quick fix to this national problem if no one takes responsibility. It needs to be addressed with families as kids learn by example. As a business onwer, wife, mother I have accepted the responsibility of feeding my family healthy foods. I look at it as a committment and my job to provide my family with quality nutrition. I talk to my kids about choices and they are understanding the importance of fueling their bodies with clean foods. I could be food lazy but I know that that extra step is worth it. It does take some planning and it really isn't that hard to follow the principles of eating smaller meals and including fruits, vegies, whole grains, low-fat dairy and lean proteins in your daily food plan. The best thing anyone can do is spread your common sense ideas and show by example.
Excellent Post! I have to say...the topic of conversation in my spin class this morning was the epidemic of child hood obesity and how there is not enough for those who really need it. Like Tracy Downing pointed out in her comment..."Kids are 'weeded' out of sport more quickly than they once were and for those that are not successful in their athletic endeavors, there are few places for them to go." If you really want to make a change offer your services to the schools! We all know the best rate is a group rate if you have to charge. Train the entire school at the end of the day for a dollar per kid or do it for FREE! To do my part I'm starting in my local community by offering a FREE FAMILY FITNESS FAIR at Summerville High School. Its open to all kids parents, parents, coaches and student athletes...If you live in or around Tuolumne County come and join me for the fun! Just bring your own water and snacks this Saturday August 28th, 2009.
I have just been touring the US for the past three weeks and the problem here is very obvious, we don't see it in Vancouver like this. In airports at 7 am I have seen waddling obese mothers with their children sipping on sugary drinks and eating bags of chips and this is a common scene.
I am no longer a trainer but am a distributor of nutritional cleansing products and have been amazed with the positive and lasting changes I have been able to help people to make over the past 4 years. I like it because it gives people a fast, lasting and emotional result which encourages them to continue on a healthy path. So many people are looking for a quick fix but they need to be educated - eating the RDA of fruits and veggies isn't enough anymore and many people aren't even doing that. I agree that it starts with the parents and if the parents are educated on proper health and nutrition they will trickle down that knowledge to their children. So finding something that the entire family can incorporate is even better and I do think it has to be easy and a system - not just a protein powder from a big box store for breakfast.
I think trainers can make a greater difference if they can find a company that offers a system of products that is easy to use, safe and effective. When I was a trainer it didn't occur to me to do this and I also think I was put off by the idea that it might not be my place. Yet, I had clients coming in to see me who were doing wacky cleanses like the Master Cleanse. It would have been so wonderful for them if I was able to offer them a better way. As a trainer, if you find something you believe in and can incorporate it into your business model that is even better -at least that is my two cents :)
I talk about this all the time and write about it in my columns and most recent book, Nicki Anderson's Single Step Weight Loss Solution - 101 No-Nonsense Tips on Healthy Living, Weight Loss and a Diet Free Life! You are right, education and "prevention" is all arss backwards. I remind parents every day, "You emphasize the importance of your children being a good student, not drinking while driving, not smoking. What about eating healthy and being active (above and beyond organized sports). We have too much emphasis on food, and too little on exercise. Exercise and healthy nutrition should be part of the school curriculum and mandatory for parents to attend on the front end and back end as a sort of orientation. If this is the problem that we know it is, it's interesting that money isn't going more towards prevention. And so it goes....
The health of our nation is depressing. I agree that the children need to be educated and learn correct habits early, but the problem is also the parents. Not so much that they allow their children's unhealthy lifestyles, but rather that the parents don't take care of themselves. People know the risks and the problems, but they STILL refuse to work. It has become too easy to be unhealthy and out of shape. It is easier to not exercise or eat healthy and get sick and get "treated" by a medicine or drug than it is to "prevent" health problems through diet and exercise. At least, that is how alot of people view this. It is very similar to our economy. Before the recession, during the past 10 years, people had anything and everything they wanted, whether they could afford it or not - look where that led us! The same for health. People are "allowed" to be unhealthy and if things don't change, then those of us that are not overweight or obese will be even more of a minority than we already are and our health care system and probably our nation as a whole will crumble.
Jason,
Preventative Health Specialist
The fitness industry is well equipped to help solve both the obesity epidemic and the pathetic conditions of health care in North America. We have two significant hurdles, however:
One: Ourselves. Fitness, as an industry must present itself as an authority not only in beautiful looking bodies but in the health and well-being of the general population. Our knowledge must be sacrosanct and recognized by the rest of the health professions as logical, reliable, and precise. Our methods and information must reflect intelligent judgement and education more than superficial features.
Two: Other health industries. Each of us has experienced a moment in our careers when fitness has better suited and resolved someone's health more productively than any other facet of health care. We are a viable force with more members, more professionals, and more dedication to our constituents than any other health service. Thus, our services effectively reduce the need for more directed and specific care like medical and pharmaceutical. Many doctors and drug companies don't want us muscling in on their well established and lucrative businesses. Certainly many health practitioners sing the praises of fitness and advocate it as a remedy for whatever ails them. This is helpful but our purpose is better served before that patient ever went to the doctor. Certainly health insurance companies don't, at the moment, want to have anything to do with us because we offer no credibility and no uniform procedure to reduce health care costs.
We all know how to fix the nation's health care, however. Our staff is caring and has and honest concern for the well-being of the average individual. Beyond that many of our employees have basic knowledge of health care. We are CPR certified, have a basic understanding of blood pressure, cholesterol, weight management, nutrition, and other basic aspects of human health. We should be the front lines in health care. Society should recognize us as the professionals who give them piece of mind. Imagine if, instead of making a $175 appointment with their doctor with a $40 co-pay to get readings on the baseline health, people come to us - and for $10 they get the same information as they could from an expensive medical practitioner! We can give people piece of mind - we can be the "oil change" operators of the health industry.
But first we need to exercise our industries demons, recognize ourselves as viable, and present ourselves as professional. We can be the future of affordable health care.
I have been a PT for 6 years and have worked with great kids along the way. I have long thought the issue has been children learn from what they see. Last year I wrote Oscar & Otis-Fat Fighters for kids. It's an animated funny story about kids making better choices and teaching their parents along the way. To me, we have seriosley failed at leading by example. My hope, is that we can start over and start with the children.
www.oscarnadotis.com
have been a PT for 6 years and have worked with great kids along the way. I have long thought the issue has been children learn from what they see. Last year I wrote Oscar & Otis-Fat Fighters for kids. It's an animated funny story about kids making better choices and teaching their parents along the way. To me, we have seriousley failed at leading by example. My hope, is that we can start over and start with the children
www.oscaranddotis.com
Great post Barry. I couldn't agree with you more. I see fat children getting into the family vans of their fat parents. As a direct influence, I believe that we need to be open with our family/friends about weight, nutrition and exercise. This is especially true if we are a part of the health and fitness industry. We are all responsible and response-able.
You comment about the teacher being fit should also apply to police officers (get out of your cars and walk the streets to make your presence known and get some exercise so that you can chase the increasing number of criminals); fire fighters; sports team coaches/trainers.
Advocate for daily physical education in schools and better food in the vendors.
Lobby the government to encourage physical activity.
We all have a role to play, do yours.
I have worked in the field trying to educate and motivate others to lose weight and improve their lifestyles to decrease risk of cardiac disease. I am completely amazed at the lack of motivation when death is the consequence if no action is taken. Some are still not motivated after massive MI's or open heart surgery. Some are still not motivated to control blood sugars after losing eyesight or limbs. AMAZING!
I think one motivation to help the pediatric obesity epidemic is to fine parents if their child is overweight at the yearly well-check. I agree it is child abuse and neglect to do what is best/healthy for the child.
PE must be back into the daily curriculum at all grade levels also. Learning fundamental motor skills and about wellness is just as important science or any other subject. The skills learned in PE will help the person throughout life. Several children now do not want to participate in physical activity because they are not comfortable moving their body. It does not feel natural or smooth to them, much less want to do do aerobics or throw a ball.
Something HAS to be done politically because obviously the parents are not responsible enough to make the right decisions for their children anymore. It would also help if food stamps and other federal aid would only provide healthy food. Nothing with HFCS, trans fat, or junk foods.
This is such a huge problem with an incredibly wide range of issues that contribute to it. People's posts have already mentioned most, but this one more aspect is equally important: our car culture has taken the most basic of activities out of our daily regimen - walking. I had the luxury for about 8 months to live a 25 minute walk away from work and found that the return trip every day put me in great shape (I'm normally in pretty ok shape, but this felt more fit than normal). I have to fight now, with 2 kids, grocery stores that are mostly not within driving distance, a life that includes a LOT more driving than I think is healthy for me. I walk to the store whenever I can, ride my bike to work as much as possible, but in my estimation, we need to encourage even our local municipalities to help small businesses thrive so that we are not all relying on the big box stores at the mall but can buy food from someone in our neighbourhood. So, in some cities we need to change zoning laws when they prohibit mixed-use neighbourhoods; offer incentives to public transit - which brings people out on the street much more than driving individual cars; promote density rather than urban sprawl.... All this combined with the fitness incentives so many have talked about above.... We need movement to be a part of our everyday lives, and car culture, though efficient, does us a great disservice in this realm.
Parent activity is directly correlated to child activity, like most comments above me have stated. Providing a way for the entire family to get involved and create positive memories that are linked to being physically active would really help to get rid of the thought that doing something active is a "chore" for future generations.
As for the current obesity problem, it's easy to say that education would be the solution. Education is a solution to everything. I like the idea of creating more bike paths, more events, more ways to get active for ALL types of activity levels, so that sedentary people can see a possible way to enter into physical activity, whatever that way may be.
The problem will not stop until technology stops. The rate of obesity and the increase in technology are hand in hand. Instead of one parent at home taking proper care and educating their child we have T.V. to do. If parents spent less time working and more time educating and moving with their kids this wouldn't be a problem. Stop paying for T.V., internet, i phones, Hybrid cars, and luxury items that fill the empty hole that good health would fill. If you cut those expenses you wouldn't have to work so hard and would have more time to exercise.
Thanks for all of the great responses, here is a quick follow up and summary of the ideas and thoughts, yes I do read them all. First I would like to say that I am surprised at the following results mostly because the vast majority of respondents place the blame on the parents of today. As a non parent I often get criticized when I make a statement about parental responsibility and the health of children, most feel I have no experience so should not be judgmental. So I was happy that so many parents responded.
By the numbers:
The people most responsible and that need to make the change:
•Parents: 65%
•School: 20%
•Government: 10%
•Food Companies: 5%
Reasons for this:
•Lack of personal reibility: 40%
•Lack of parental activity: 35%
•Lack of education: 20%
•Legislation needed: 2%
Some of the best solutions:
Claude The Bod:
Great name and an even better idea hold a free family fitness fair like his on August 28th in Tuolumne County.
My two cents:
This can be adapted in so many ways and will become a blog, but here are some easier options; have a bring you youth to your session day, hold a free family nutrition seminar, boot camp day care the parents work out the kids run around, hand out on how to get kids active. Easy to do no expense could even add new business.
Tracey Downing:
Kids are being left on the sideline by team sports selecting the fittest and more skilled. As fitness professionals we should create opportunities for them.
My two cents:
I love this and feel that there is a huge opportunity here from a personal growth and business perspective. Intramural games, scavenger hunts, organize skills challenges or extra curricular PE classes can all be great ways to get the lost children active again. These can be created for profit or for free depends on your situation but all can be pitched to the school boards and administrators even government for funding.
Again, thanks and keep the responses coming but remember the challenge is to be part of the solution so get out there and keep making a difference and try to implement some of the suggestions made.
I have been addressing this issue in my area for approximately 15 years and the problem grows stronger every year. I would be very open to making a joint effort to organize a network of health and fitness experts including myself that can collectively raise funds and or create functions to create more awareness to the epidemic that is upon us and growing strong since the early 1980's.
Today is a great day to ride for Child Hood Obesity.
Join me on my adventure at The Performance as I
journey 100 miles from Sonora Ca to Roseville Ca.
Please comment on my Training Blog to share your voice on my center.
The fitness industry is the FRONT LINE of health care. The problem is most of the industry does not act as such. We cannot rely on government reforms to fix this issue. The same government is trying to fix an economic issue that would turn to disaster if everyone just decided to EAT RIGHT AND TREAT THE EARTH PROPERLY.
We must lead by example. How many of you are selling pills, powders and bars in your fitness facilities instead of healthy REAL food options? How many trainers in your facilities are actually seen by the clients working out every day?
On top of setting examples we MUST educate. FAT does not make you fat! People blame the food industry and that's valid. They're doing everything in their power to hide the facts and confuse the consumer. We must educate them.
Attitudes must change. Paying your monthly fee is NOT good enough. Walking into the gym and chatting with your friends is NOT good enough. Lifestyles must change. We are the front line.
This may sound dramatic and aggressive, but the situation is critical and these are desperate times. As an industry we must focus less on our bottom line and more on the client's success.
My 100 mile ride for obesity was a success. I met many people along the way and spread the word. My FREE FAMILY FITNESS FAIR is this Saturday 8am at Summerville High School. If you are in the local area come and check it out. It's FREE! Today is the last day to enter and win a power fitness chute at my Performance Center. I'm giving away a fitness product every week. Nominate yourself or someone else!
Way to go Claude, Nice to hear about people taking action on this issue! we would love to hear about other people getting involved and putting together programs. classes, awareness campaigns. Let us know what you are doing.
Nikki Layton
www.myvolo.com
My FREE FAMILY FITNESS FAIR was a hit with my local community. Great feedback from those who participated and I can't wait to see who comes out next Saturday. I am headed to the San Francisco area to meet with a inline downhill skate team. I cant wait to show you guys this content.
If you have content that suits a high school audience check out my website and lets talk about how we can integrate.