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.