Family Run Series Aims to Fight Childhood Obesity

Feb. 5, 2013 - PRLog -- Bodies Personal Training is joining the fight to end childhood obesity by hosting a series of family themed healthy holiday fun runs throughout 2013. According to The Center for Disease Control (CDC), childhood obesity affects 17 percent of children and adolescents, which is double the rate of 30 years ago.1 Kansas City’s total obesity rate (adults and children) is just above 30 percent.2

The CDC reports that obese children are at increased risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, risk factors for cardiovascular disease, breathing problems such as asthma and sleep apnea, joint problems, fatty liver disease, gallstones and a higher risk of social and psychological problems.3

"Children who are overweight and obese are motivated to lose weight, but they can't do it alone. They must have the support and full involvement of their families to support healthy eating choices and healthy family lifestyles that include exercise," said Deneen Vojta, M.D., senior vice president, United Health Center for Health Reform & Modernization.4

Dr. Vojta has been part of a research study on behalf of United Health Care, concerning whole-family involvement in childhood weight loss. After six months in the pilot program, children averaged a 3.5 percent reduction in excess weight, with eight out of ten children remaining in the program.5

“We (Bodies) are dedicated to trying to create a healthier community and we believe fitness is for everyone but understand that not everyone can afford personal training.  That doesn’t mean families can’t be active!  Find something you enjoy and engage yourself in it.  That’s what we’ve tried to create with the Healthy Holiday Fun Run Series”  --Brad McCleary (Owner Bodies Personal Training).

The first run in the series, The Sweetheart Shuffle 5k/10k, will be February 9 at Bass Pro in Independence, Missouri. Festivities will include t-shirts for preregistered participants, pre-race children’s activities, custom cast finisher medals for couples, placement medals, a City Union Mission food and blanket collection and a post-race party. Running is not required, walkers are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Special couple’s registration fees are $65 through February 7 and $75 on the day of the race. Individual registration fees are $30 through February 7 and $40 the day of the race. Kid’s activities will begin at 7 a.m. with the race starting at 8 a.m. You can register at enter2run.com by clicking on the Sweetheart Shuffle 5K & 10K.

Additional run sponsors include Nature’s Pantry and Select Physical Therapy. Participants who complete all six runs will receive the coveted six-inch medal. Additional races for 2013 include The Easter Escapade, March 23; The Firecracker Flight, June 29; The Halloween Hustle, October 26; The Turkey Trails, November 23; and the Candy Cane Course, December 14.

For more information about Bodies Personal Training, visit their Web site at www.bodiespersonaltraining.com.