Youth Obesity

     Most professionals in the fitness industry can recite some sort of statistics on the deplorable health of adults in America. This is what keeps it a multi-billion dollar a year industry, and some very happy, very successful fitness professionals. The problem is the industry may be a bit short sighted.
      With youth obesity numbers currently near 30%, the industry may not be ready for the long term effects these children may suffer from as adults. Should this number increase, this country won;t be ready. Increased incidents of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and increase in obesity related deaths.
      We all know that there are literally thousands of youth programs around the country, geared to teach, and keep children active. But, there are  numerous reasons why more youths are not participating in these programs. Some of the reasons may not be as simple as many think. Access being a critical, and one of the more obvious, making this an economic issue. Environment, a slightly more complicated issue. Youths not being able to leave their home because of the war zone they live in. A final being, psychological, covering as many issues as youths you speak with.
     Having said all of this, there are enough fitness professionals in this country that could bring knowledge and experience to some of these issues, so if at all possible,give some of your time and expertise to a youth organization. For those already in the trenches. keep up the phenomenal work.
      One of the greatest things about the fitness industry is that this is one of the few industries that a majority of the professionals are in it for the sheer passion. Whether you grew up as an athlete, or went through a transformation that changed your life, you have now committed your life to fitness. So share the passion, share the experiences that got you where you are. You truly have no idea how this may change a young persons life.

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