BATON ROUGE — LSU student-athletes shared their physical fitness knowledge this weekend, taking part in the American Heart Association’s “Go Healthy Challenge for Kids,” a childhood obesity awareness day held Saturday at Cortana Mall.
Members of the men’s basketball, track and field, gymnastics and swimming and diving teams led fitness stations, demonstrating physical fitness exercises and helping kids perform the various activities. The fitness stations included jump ropes, sit-ups and several strength and balance exercises. Children also completed health and nutrition challenges.
Nearly 1,000 Baton Rouge-area kids participated in the event, which aimed to raise awareness about childhood obesity in the capital area. Louisiana ranks fourth in adult obesity in the nation, and nearly one in three Louisiana school-aged children is overweight or obese.
“This was a really great event today,” said men’s basketball player Storm Warren. “The kids got active and were happy about participating at the stations. I love working with kids and am glad we could spend the day helping out and showing them how important physical fitness is in your everyday life.”
Literature was provided to kids on exercise, nutrition and tips for living a heart-healthy lifestyle. In addition, children who completed the physical activities and nutrition challenges received prizes, including backpacks stuffed with school supplies.
“I really enjoyed the fit camp kids’ zone event,” said gymnast Ashley Lee. “I love working with kids and was happy to see them get excited about participating in this. I am glad I got the opportunity to be a part of this and make a difference in their day.”