March 5th, 2012 admin
Weight loss will be more successful if people are willing to change their unhealthy habits, and replace them with healthy behaviors. Dieting is not the answer to weight loss because it creates temporary eating patterns, so you only get temporary results. So here’s the question most people with weight issues ask themselves: What is the best way to drop excess weight??
In order to maintain a healthy weight, there are a few of things you must do:
1. Exercise!
Reaching a healthy weight requires regular physical activity. Exercising helps burn calories and builds muscle, which makes you feel good and helps keep the weight off. Try to increase your daily level activity by walking your dog or riding your bike.
2. Watch your portions!
Being aware of portion distortion will help you keep the weight off. Most portion sizes are a lot bigger than they used to be, which means you are consuming a lot of extra calories that you don’t really need.
3.Stop drinking those sugary drinks!
A key factor in weight gain is drinking sugary beverages like sodas and juice. It’s best to choose smaller portions when drinking these beverages. Or skip having a Coke with lunch and dinner. Treat sugary drinks like they are a treat and have them occasionally.
Luckily, it is never too late to make changes that can control your weight and the health problems it may cause. Build your way up to big changes by making small ones. And never be afraid to ask for help!
Written by MECKids Student Ambassador Zoe
Posted in Education, Fitness, Health, meckids, Obesity, Schools | No Comments »
December 13th, 2011 admin
It’s hard to believe that 2011 is coming to an end already. Where has this year gone? As it comes to an end it’s time for us to reflect on everything that has transpired throughout the year!
Let’s take a look at trends that have come and gone regarding Childhood obesity in 2011.
What’s IN!!!
Educating Kids on healthy eating |
What’s OUT???
Letting Kids Eat Junk Food |
| Exciting PE classes that use social media and a
Variety of programs from Zumba to YOGA |
Boring Health & PE Classes
that don’t engage students |
| Video games that make you move like the
Wii & EA Sports |
Video games played on the couch |
| Community Involvement with kids focused on
campaigns such as Let’s Move & MECKids
You Gotta MOVE Events |
Schools go it alone to fight
childhood obesity |
| The Food Plate |
My Pyramid |
What do you think? Drop us a line and share your ideas on getting kids fit in the New Year!
Posted in Education, Events, Fitness, Health, meckids, Obesity, Schools, Sports, Teachers, Training, Uncategorized, Yoga | No Comments »
November 22nd, 2011 admin
Only 5 1/2 weeks left in 2011! Can you believe how fast this year is going?
The holiday season is already upon us and with that usually comes an extra few pounds. But it doesn’t have to be that way! There are a few small changes that you can make that will help you not gain weight during the holidays!
1. AMP up your workouts during this time of year. If you are short on time, try a tabata workout! It’s an intense 4 min workout. Everybody has 4 minutes!
2. Keep track of what you are eating. Knowing that you have to write down everything that you eat will probably make you think twice before eating it.
3. Drink TONS of water! Staying hydrated will not only help you feel fuller it will boost your energy throughout the day.
4. Fill your plate with vegetables FIRST! This will leave you only a little room for all the high carb deliciousness and desserts!
5. Last but not least, ALLOW yourself to indulge a little! If you don’t you’ll probably overindulge.
This time of the year is supposed to be about family not food. So enjoy this beautiful holiday season with your family!
Posted in Fitness, Food, Health, meckids, Obesity, Strength Conditioning, Training | No Comments »
September 25th, 2011 admin
Breakfast is one of the most important meals you can eat, so it makes sense that the same is true for kids. Breakfast is what helps jump start their metabolism for the rest of the day. Whether you are a parent or a teacher, it’s imperative that we are helping kids get a healthy start to their day.
Research has shown that students who eat breakfast have a general increase in their math grades and reading scores. That’s because a good breakfast jump starts their brain and body making them alert and ready for their school day. Studies have also found that students who eat breakfast generally have better health and a better attendance record.
Now that kids are back in school it can be hard to fit in a decent breakfast with the mornings being so busy. The truth is kids really don’t need that much to get them going in the morning. Here are a few simple breakfast ideas:
- Scrambled eggs and toast.
- Apple and Peanut Butter
- Smoothie with Whey protein
- Fruit medley
- Oatmeal
Make it a point to encourage your students to get a healthy breakfast before their busy day of school begins. You’ll help them get off to a healthy start in school and in life. Your students will thank you for it in the end.
Posted in Food, Health, meckids, Obesity, Schools, Teachers | No Comments »
August 23rd, 2011 admin
How many of you grew up playing some type of organized sports? Some of the best memories that I have from my childhood are from playing on some type of team. Whether it was playing kickball during recess or playing volleyball during the summer, I always loved the feeling of being on a team. Team sports are some of the best ways to encourage your kids to get out there and get healthy. There are so many benefits that can come from your kids being part of the team both physically and emotionally.
If you encourage your kids to play some type of sports, they are going to be far more likely to stay active as they get older. They will be exercising and most likely won’t even realize it because of all the fun they will be having. Sign them up for a team and help them get on the right track to being a healthy adult!
By being part of a team your kids will also build a camaraderie with kids their own age. It is important that your kids get the opportunity to build friendships with kids so they know how to interact with others. Being on a team shows your kids how to rely on each other so that they can accomplish anything if they just work together.
Kids that are on a team also learn how to build confidence. Teamwork gives kids the chance to try things that they would not otherwise try on their own. They feel that they can accomplish so much when they know that they have others doing it with them.
If your kids are not already on a team, I would highly recommend that you get them involved in one somehow. Help your kids become healthy adults by encouraging them to start healthy habits while they are young. Being a part of a team makes everything better!
Posted in Fitness, Health, meckids, Obesity, Schools, Sports, Teachers, Training | No Comments »
August 20th, 2011 admin
Staying hydrated is one of the most important things you can do for your body. 75% Americans are dehydrated while only 50% of the world is. The worst part of that stat is that dehydration is 100% preventable.
Your body loses about 2.5 quarts a day and that doesn’t include when you work out or do anything strenuous. Studies have shown that for every 1% of water weight that we lose our ability to work or exercise goes down by 10%. You may not think that dehydration effects your body very much but it does whether you realize it or not.
When a person is dehydrated there are many things it does to their body. Dehydration causes your organs to use more blood due to the lack of water in your system. Lack of hydration causes cells to shrink and the water surrounding cells diminishes, causing cells to not function properly. If your cells and organs are not working the way that they should be your body can’t work at it’s full potential.
Now that you know the problems that can arise from it, let’s look at how we can tell if we are dehydrated. A few signs are nausea, muscle cramps and dry mouth. If you feel extremely thirsty most likely you are already slightly dehydrated. If you are well hydrated your urine should be a light almost clear color.
A key part to preventing dehydration is knowing what your proper water intake should be. Everyone’s intake will differ depending on gender, age, weight and environmental conditions. Try to drink about 1/2 of your body weight to start. Eating more fruits and vegetables will help you stay hydrated due to their high water content. If you are doing a strenuous activity make sure you drink plenty of water. Also if you happen to be flying anywhere staying hydrated is important.
Being aware of your body and it’s needs will help you live a healthier life. So drink up!
Posted in Fitness, Food, Health, meckids, Obesity, Schools, Teachers | No Comments »
August 11th, 2011 admin
Can you believe it? Summer is almost over. Your kids will be heading back to school within the next couple of weeks. I know there are some kids who eagerly await the chance to get back to school but most tend to dread the end of summer. Before the summer is over why not plan a few fun activities that you and your family can do together before the bustle of school begins.
1. Go Camping. You don’t even need to leave the house for this. If you have a tent pop it up in the backyard and make your own personal campsite. If you don’t have a tent or if you prefer to stay away from the bugs build a tent inside all you need is a few blankets and some cushions. Make it a no tv or computer night and enjoy the night with your family!
2. Go to your local zoo. I know I always loved going to the zoo as a kid. It was always so exciting to see such incredible animals that you don’t get to see on a typical day. You can even make it a learning experience. Have each kid pick out an animal and then at the end of the day have everyone share some facts about their animal of choice. Your kids will love hearing all about the other animals and you can add a fun element to the day.
3. Go for a bike ride or a hike. Take advantage of the weather and hit the trails while you still can. Explore a new park in your area or ride your bikes in a new neighborhood. Show your kids that exercising and being outside can be fun!
4. Have a movie night. The twist is instead of picking a typical movie pull out old family videos or make a fun slideshow with some family pictures. Pop some popcorn and get ready for an evening of laughter. You and your family will have so much fun remembering all the fun you’ve had together as a family.
5. Set up a family soda shop. You’ll first have to explain what a soda shop is to your kids. =) Tell your kids they can make a sundae with whatever toppings they want on it. You can also make some classic root beer floats. There’s nothing wrong with a little indulgence once in awhile. Enjoy!
By trying to get in these 5 things before summer ends, you and your family are bound to make more memories. You’ll have had the chance to enjoy some time as a family before the craziness of school begins. You and your kids will be ready to take the school year head on. Make these last few weeks count!
Posted in Education, Fitness, Health, meckids, Obesity, Schools, Sports, Teachers | No Comments »
August 2nd, 2011 admin
Summer is already winding down, so this will be our last blog in this series. We are going to take a look at things to do in the cool city of Atlanta. Atlanta is one of those cities that people forget how amazing it is.
Here are a few things you can do this summer with your family in Atlanta:
1. Fourth Saturday Family Fun Day- Centennial Olympic Park- 4th Saturday of each month May-September
http://atlmomsonthemove.com/2011/05/fourth-saturday-family-fun-days-in-centennial-park/
Every 4th Saturday throughout the summer you can enjoy games, educational programming, concerts, and prizes at Centennial Olympic Park. It starts at noon and runs until 4pm. This family event is free. Your family will love all the different activities that are offered. There are only 2 left this year so get your family there before it’s over.
2. Kid’s Workshop at Home Depot- Home Depot’s across the country- 1st Saturday every month all year round
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ContentView?pn=Kids_Workshops&langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053&cm_mmc=thd_marketing-_-vanity-_-kidsworkshop-_-LP&locStoreNum=159
Your kids can learn how to make some very cool things. They also will learn tool safety and different do-it-yourself skills. This program is absolutely free. Your kids will be beaming with pride when they show everyone their newest project.
3. Movies in Central Park- Central Park- Every Thursday May-September
http://www.atlanticstation.com/free-summer-movie-series.php
Every Thursday at sundown you and your family can head to Central Park to see a free movie. Your kids will love the chance to watch their favorite movies outside. Make sure you check what is showing because you might not want your kids seeing them all. Pop some popcorn and head over to Central Park for a fun movie under the stars.
4. Fountain of Rings- Centennial Olympic Park- Daily shows 12:30pm, 3:30pm, 6:30pm and 9:00pm
http://www.centennialpark.com/index.php/things-to-do/fountain-of-rings
The fountains are situated in the center of Centennial Olympic Park. These fountains were originally built for the Olympics in 1996. They are one of the most visited sights in Atlanta. You and your kids a like will love this brilliant light show. Don’t miss this beautiful sight!
5. The New World Of Coca-Cola- Coca-Cola Factory- Open year round
http://www.worldofcoca-cola.com/
You and your family will love this fun-filled factory tour. There truly is something for everyone on this tour. Your kids will have so much fun trying flavors from all over the world and getting their picture taking with the famous Coca-Cola Polar Bear. This is a tour that they will tell their friends about. It’s a little on the pricier side but it is well worth the extra money. Head over to the Coca-Cola Factory and immerse your self in an American staple.
Atlanta is an incredible city both for kids and adults. Don’t miss out on experiencing some of their amazing attractions. Whether you live here or are planning to visit, Atlanta has so much to offer.
Posted in Community Activities, Education, Fitness, Health, meckids | No Comments »
July 29th, 2011 admin
I can’t believe it is almost August. Seriously where has the summer gone? I’m going to post 2 more cities in this series. Today we are going to look at Chicago. I grew up about 2 hours from Chicago and always loved going there especially in the summer.
I know summer is almost over but Chicago still has some cool things going on for the family.
1. Cirque Shanghai- Navy Pier- June 29th-September 5th
http://www.navypier.com/cirqueshanghai/
You and the kids will love this show which includes amazing sword fights and a death-defying motorcycle aerial wire act. It’s showing all summer long and is at the beautiful Navy Pier. Tickets are not super cheap at $15 for kids and $17.50 and up for adults. You can also pay a little extra and get a Navy Pier pass and enjoy all that the pier has to offer. Your kids will love it!
2. Pinkalicious- Broadway Playhouse- July 8th-September 3rd
http://broadwayinchicago.com/shows_dyn.php?cmd=display_current&display_showtag=Pinkalicious2011
This play is a fun filled adventure about a girl who eats one to many cupcakes. It’s an entertaining story willed with fun songs and characters. Your little girls in particular will love this show. Check it out before it’s over!
3. Chicago free museum days- Museums all over Chicago- All year round
http://www.chicagokids.com/free.html
This is a different event than I usually add but this is such a wonderful deal I just had to share it. There are several museums in Chicago that have free days throughout the year. What an awesome way to have fun with your kids and help them learn a few things as well.
4. Chicago Botanic Gardens Dancin’ Sprouts- Chicago Botanic Garden- Every Wednesday June 8th-August 31st
http://www.chicagokids.com/blog/botanicgardensdancinsprouts.cfm
Your kids will be dancing to the fun beats of a variety of performers. There is a new performer every week and they are all geared toward entertaining your kids. The event is completely free. So head over to the Botanic Gardens and let your kids dance!
5. Summer on Southport- Waveland Ave. near Wrigley Field- July 30th & 31st
http://starevents.com/events/summer-on-southport/
I know this event is this weekend but you don’t want to miss it! It’s a weekend full of face painting, entertainment, and delicious food for the whole family. They even have a kid’s corner with a rock climbing wall, bouncy activities and even a 9 hole mini putt. The kid’s corner is $5 to get in but it covers everything. This is an event that has something for everybody in the family. Have some fun this weekend and head over to Southport!
It’s almost August and that means summer is almost over, so enjoy the last few weeks. Check out some of these events and let us know how you liked them. Spending some time in Chicago during the summer guarantees fun for the whole family!
Posted in Community Activities, Events, Fitness, Health, meckids | No Comments »
July 19th, 2011 admin
This week we are going to look at things you can do with your family in LA. Most people immediately think about the beaches and all that they have to offer. True there are gorgeous beaches around LA, but there is so much more for you to do with your family here.
Here are just a few:
1. Beethoven’s Wig sings along to the classics- Ford Amphitheater- July 23rd 10:00 am
http://fordtheatres.org/en/events/details/id/301
Have you ever wondered how it would sound if classical music had words? Well now is your chance to find out. Beethoven’s Wig is a musical group that has won multiple awards. They set their own words to classics from Mozart, Beethoven and more. It’s a fun way to expose your kids to classical music. Anybody under 12 is free with everybody else being only $5. You won’t want to miss this fun family entertainment.
2. Kids Club on the Green- The Americana at Brand- Every Tuesday 11am-1pm
http://www.americanaatbrand.com/glendale/promos/promo_page.php?id_promo=10§ion=events
The kids club is free and and offers some fun for the little ones. There is music, entertainment and even arts and crafts for everyone. The cool thing is that a few of the restaurants in the area offer free food to kids on Tuesday. The club is free and is held rain or shine. So don’t miss it!
3. Kids Bowl for free- Bowling Alleys around the US- Memorial Day through late August
http://freethingstodoinlosangeles.net/2011/04/26/kids-bowl-free-this-summer-again/
There are multiple bowling alleys all across the US that offer 2 free games every day for kids. This is something that the whole family can enjoy. It’s a fun and interesting way to keep your kids moving this summer!
4. Summer Family Fun- Farmer’s Market LA 6333 W. Third St. Los Angeles, CA 90036-7/24, 8/7, & 8/21 12-3pm
http://www.farmersmarketla.com/special_events/index.asp
The Summer Family Fun at the Farmer’s Market offers all sorts of entertainment. You can enjoy the shopping while your kids are thoroughly entertained. Your kid’s can enjoy face painting, juggling, music, puppet shows, and arts and crafts. The entertainment is free and runs from 12-3pm. You and your kids will love this so make sure you check it out!
5. Moonlight Movies on the Beach- Different beaches in Long Beach, CA- All summer long. Movies start at dusk
http://lbcinema.org/moonlight-movie/
How fun is sitting on a beach with your family and watching a movie? Take your kids to see a movie on the beach. They show family movies all summer long at 3 different locations. They also show classics and cult favorites, so make sure you check what they are showing to make sure it’s something you want your kids to see. Each movie is free, so try to view as many as you can!
Los Angeles is a beautiful city with tons of different things going on. The list of things to do is endless. If you are looking for more ideas on what to do with your family in LA this summer check out these websites.
http://readysetgrowla.org/blog/2011/05/10-educational-fun-and-free-things-to-do-with-kids-in-los-angeles-this-summer/
http://discoverlosangeles.com/play/activities-and-recreation/activities/100-free-things-to-do-activities.jsp
Have fun exploring this incredible city!
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