About one-third of children and teens in America are overweight or on the brink of becoming so, government data shows. If kids don’t start exercising before they turn 13, studies show they will be more likely to face weight problems for the rest of their lives. That’s why there is a new push to get "tweens" to exercise.
Whether it's stomping their feet or hitting the weights, kids at the Eastside YMCA in Penfield are finding ways to stay active and have fun at the same time.
"I just like how we can do all the machines and all the games you can play," says sixth grader Jake Nelson.
Nelson is what's known as a “tween,” a child between the ages of eight and 12. To keep this age group busy, you have to hold their attention.
About one-third of children and teens in America are overweight or on the brink of becoming so, government data show. If kids don’t start exercising before they turn 13, studies show they will be more likely to face weight problems for the rest of their lives. That’s why there’s a new push to get tweens to exercise. Casey Bortnick has more.
"I like the bike because, if you have a friend, you can have a two-player and have a virtual race against them," says Jake.
With childhood obesity on the rise, “tween” centers like this one at the Eastside YMCA in Penfield are becoming more popular.
"If they're not involved in sports, they really have no physical outlet," says Eastside YMCA Wellness Director Pam Burris.
So instead of trying to keep kids away from video games, this center encourages them.
“It keeps them active, and they're going to be at it a lot longer, because they're having a good time," says Burris.
From 'Dance, Dance Revolution' to good old-fashioned foosball, the idea is to make exercising more enjoyable.
"I think it's important to get kids started at a young age to make it more of a habit, so they can start that healthy lifestyle earlier, and it won't be as much of a struggle," says Burris.
For Jake, it's a chance to try something new.
"It's different than if you rode a bike outside or something," comments Jake.
More importantly, the new center will allow him to stay active all year long.