NORWICH – For the first time in history, the life expectancy of the next generation is expected to be shorter than that of their parents, and the reason for that staggering statistic is obesity.
According to Norwich Family YMCA Executive Director Jamey Mullen, childhood obesity is a growing problem, but the Y has taken one small step toward teaching children the importance of exercise and helping to make it a part of their lives, by introducing three new youth fitness classes.
“We’re going to keep building on this in the months and years to come,” Mullen said. The classes, which are each eight weeks long, were created as a positive outlet for kids at the Y.
Classes include: Fun Progressions and Conditioning, led by instructor Steve Winter; Basics of Tae Kwan Do with Chrissy Natoli; and Strength and Cardio Blast with Shannon Gawronski. The classes began a little over a month ago.
“We’re searching now for what to do when this eight-week session is over,” Mullen said. Currently, there are approximately 28 students in each of the three classes. While participation in most of the Y’s programs decrease in the summer months as people enjoy outdoor activities, they hope to continue the programs and place an even greater emphasis on them in the fall.
“The Y recently adopted a new strategic plan for the next five years, and youth development was one of the four goal areas,” Mullen said. Classes like these, which are directed toward teens and preteens, are especially important as part of that goal.
Mullen explained that these three classes evolved as a result of a program done with Bassett Health Care. The program allowed children the opportunity to receive a free physical with a complete body mass index assessment. Based upon the test results, parents and children could learn if the child was at risk for obesity, diabetes or other health related issues.
In all, 10 students, ages nine to 14, took advantage of the health scan, and Mullen explained, the Y created the eight-week kick-start program to encourage those children and others to increase their physical activity. “Those students meet with Y staff every two weeks,” Mullen said. They keep journals, documenting their eating habits and recreation. The goal is not to lose weight. “The first step is not gaining weight and to promote healthy choices,” Mullen said.
Out of all of the students in the classes, Mullen said there is a pretty even ratio of male and female students and noted that probably half the students would be considered healthy or fit, while half may be considered needing exercise. “The classes are for everybody,” Mullen said.
Although this eight week session is more than half way done, Mullen said kids are encouraged to sign up at any time. “The more the merrier,” he said. “The other students and the staff feed off the larger classes.” Anyone interested in participating is asked to sign up at the front desk, so they can keep track of numbers. For more information about this and other Y programs, visit the web site at www.norwichymca.com or call 336-9622.