The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports obesity rates for
children has doubled over the past 30 years, and Georgia has one of the
worst rates of childhood obesity in the nation. In response to this trend
in our local community, Southeast Georgia Health System launched Kid Fit
Challenge.
Established in October 2015, Kid Fit Challenge is a comprehensive eight-week
program designed to encourage healthy living for children ages 8 to 12.
Each weekly Kid Fit Challenge session features fun fitness activities,
nutrition education provided by a Health System registered dietitian and
short presentations on a variety of wellness topics.
“The Health System launched Kid Fit Challenge in 2015 to address
an important need in our community,” said Michael D. Scherneck,
president & CEO, Southeast Georgia Health System. “Based on
information from the Georgia Department of Public Health, we know that
children with obesity face decreased academic performance, weakened immune
systems and shortened life expectancies. Our goal is to reinforce healthy
living choices and make wellness a topic for the whole family.”
By incorporating functional, child-appropriate education and exercises,
Kid Fit Challenge offers participants the support they need to develop
both physically and mentally. The program seeks to enhance children’s
self-esteem and confidence as they successfully complete educational applications
and meet fitness goals related to strength, flexibility, agility and endurance.
On Saturday, April 2, the Health System will kick off its second Kid Fit
Challenge program. The program is free of charge to participants thanks
to a generous donation from the Davis Love Foundation and The RSM Classic.
While there is no cost, an application is required to participate. For
more information, or to download an application, visit
sghs.org/kidfit
or contact Brendan Hunt, manager, Health Promotion & Wellness at 912-466-5168 or
wellness@sghs.org.