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HAWC to offer year round fitness class for kids

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Desiree Economides
  • 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Health and Wellness Center at Laughlin will be offering weekly fitness and health classes for children.

The class will be offered one day a week at 5:00 p.m. to allow for the kids to complete their school day and for parents to be off of work.

"We are trying to make fitness and nutrition fun for the kids. If it is fun, they'll learn and want to continue to be healthy throughout their lives," said Grisel Sanchez, HAWC health education program manager.

The class design is based off of the summer "Steppin' Off" program offered at the HAWC. Steppin' Off is a collaborative program between the 47th Medical Group and the HAWC, which teaches children the basics about health, nutrition and fitness.

"We take a very holistic approach to teaching nutrition to kids and adults; it's more than just the food guide pyramid," said Stacee Smith, installation health and wellness dietitian.

According to the Centers for Disease Prevention childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 30 years. Obese youth are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. They are also at greater risk for bone and joint problems, sleep apnea and social and psychological problems such as stigmatization and poor self-esteem.

"The 47th Medical Group is trying to prevent our base children becoming a part of this trend," said Sanchez.

To learn more about the program or to sign up for the class, call the HAWC at 830-298-6464.