A WVU CPASS program that aims to increase physical activity for students in McDowell County will kick off a new wellness challenge that will help McDowell County families lead healthy lifestyles.
The Fit Family Challenge, a no-cost six-week program, will kick off at River View High School during the “Battle of the Views” football game, August 26. Families can register for the program online or at the 5K Color Run/Walk, August 27 at Mount View High School from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Participants will use an online activity tracker to log physical activity and nutrition habits and earn points and win prizes for their healthy choices.
“The Fit Family Challenge will offer free classes, expert advice and nutrition tips. A link will be provided on the Fit Family Challenge website for families to sign up to participate by the start date of August 27, 2016. From August 27 through October 7, families can track their activities and join in on the fun,” said Eloise Elliott, Ware Distinguished Professor, College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, and lead on the McDowell CHOICES Team project.
According to Elliott, the more physical activity logged on the mobile-friendly activity tracker, the more points each family will earn, and the more chances they will have to win prizes. Prizes are awarded by random drawings weekly and two grand prizes will be awarded at the end of the challenge, including a trip to the Coca-Cola 600 at the Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 28-30.
“We know these children are at risk for a whole host of problems related to a lack of physical activity. Healthy children become healthier adults. By encouraging families to support this initiative, children and adults can stay on track in adopting healthier lifestyles,” Sean Bulger, associate professor, CPASS Physical Education Teacher Education program, explained.
Once the Challenge is over, participants can log into www.MyFitFamilyChallenge.com for healthy tips and activities all year to help stay on track to adopting healthier lifestyles.
The Fit Family Challenge is supported by the WVU College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, the McDowell CHOICES Project, McDowell County Schools and Coca-Cola.
McDowell CHOICES emphasizes the critical need for each child to be physically active for 60 minutes per day. McDowell County Schools are a leader in the state for physical activity promotion by having 100 percent participation in Let’s Move! Active Schools , a national initiative and part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” initiative.
For more information about the program visit http://mcdowellchoices.org