Get a Jump on Summer at YMCA Healthy Kids Day

YMCA teaches kids about healthy habits by challenging them to virtually walk across Canada

TORONTO, June 2, 2013 /CNW/ - Thousands of kids will get more active this month as they commit to the Get a Jump on Summer Challenge, launched today at YMCA Healthy Kids Day.  The first 2,500 kids received pedometers to track their steps and log their exercise on a special website - ymcachallenge.org - to collectively trek across the country.

As part of YMCA Healthy Kids Day, an event to educate and encourage families to develop healthy habits together, this 30 day challenge was created to get kids off the couch and active.

With 93% of kids in the GTA not getting enough exercise, the challenge will help form the healthy habits kids need to remain active all summer long. It's a great use of technology and exercise to keep kids engaged while reminding them that getting active can be fun.

The pedometers are a unique tool used to help kids stay motivated, but anyone can join the cause. All forms of exercise can be tracked online and will be converted into steps, so that any movement can help the trek. Participants are invited to create an account online and check in daily to see the progress.

Continuously working to encourage young people to stay active, the Y hopes that the challenge will keep physical fitness top of mind for families this summer, and that activity levels will remain high past the challenge end date on Canada Day. YMCA Healthy Kids Day is one of many annual events the YMCA runs to further engage the community in becoming healthier in spirit, mind and body.

Quotes

"We know that getting kids more active is important to help prevent issues including childhood obesity and diabetes," said Mehdi Zobeiry, Vice President, Toronto Central Grosvenor St. YMCA Centre,  "the Get a Jump on Summer Challenge uses friendly competition and technology to engage kids across the community to be active each day."

"The benefits of being physically active, at all ages, are no secret," said Katie Lowe, Director, Aquatics, Child & Teen Programs, "the Get a Jump on Summer Challenge puts a fun twist on exercise while joining a diverse community together around a common goal to move more often"

SOURCE: YMCA of Greater Toronto

Amie Zimon
PR Specialist
YMCA of Greater Toronto
647-588-6800
[email protected]
@ymcagta