New Y-program for overweight children

“We thought it would be a good idea to offer this because there are a lot of overweight kids out there,” said instructor Cindy Nickerson.

The program is modeled after a highly successful 20-member adult program, which has had a waiting list since it began last November.

Creating Balance incorporates exercise, including cardio, flexibility, strength training and core, and teaches healthy eating. “Participants had to have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 to join,” said instructor Cindy Nickerson. A BMI of 24.9 and below is healthy.

For the children, cardio activity-like games to get the heart rate up, hiking, track visits, cooking, and other “ fun things” are planned.

Both programs offer full YMCA access including swimming, gym use, Wii, games room and DDR (dance revolution). “We’re incorporating more exercise-type activities in our after-school program so these kids could come in and join in any one of those as well,” said Nickerson.

Creating Balance-Kid’s Edition is co-sponsored by the Nova Scotia Department of Health Promotion and Protection.

Participants must be between the ages of eight to 12 years. Family support for participants is required. Children will have homework each week, and will need the support of family members. Changes in the child’s environment may help to promote success. The cost is $10 for the weekly sessions held on Tuesdays 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Transportation for children attending Central, South, Meadowfields, Plymouth or Arcadia Schools can be arranged through the YMCA GAP club (additional fee $11/day, includes snack and supervision until 5:30 p.m.)

An information session for parents/guardians (and their children) will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 22 at 6 p.m. at the YMCA. For further information, call 742-7181 or email cindy_nickerson@ymca.ca