Senator Farley's Office To Participate In Johnstown's Leap Into Wellness Night

The New York State Senate Youth Fitness Campaign will be promoted at the "Leap Into Wellness" event on Friday, Feb. 29th, at 6 p.m. at the Johnstown High School.

"I initially introduced this 10-week program last summer," Senator Hugh T. Farley (R, C - Schenectady) explained, "but it can be used at any time of the year because it encourages children to adopt a more healthy and active lifestyle. Children should be active all year, not just summertime."

Through this 10-week program, children log in their exercise activity and report it back to Senator Farley.

Senator Farley's office will be hosting a table at the "Leap Into Wellness" event. In addition to the Fitness program, brochures will be available on local tourism sites as well as children's coloring books and activities.

Senator Farley encourages families to attend this event. "Staying fit is an important part of growing up and can teach children wellness and health habits that will remain with them for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, many children don’t get the physical exercise that they need to stay fit. In fact, more than one-fourth of U.S. school children are overweight, 50 percent more than just 20 years ago. Overweight children are at a much higher risk for developing health problems, such as heart disease, later in life. Being overweight also can impact a child’s self esteem, sense of well-being and ability to excel at school," Senator Farley said.

Senator Farley said the Youth Fitness Campaign is designed to help children stay fit by encouraging them to be active, like playing sports, skipping, jumping and even helping with household chores. "While this year-round program is geared towards students in third through fifth grades, anyone can participate because staying fit is an important part of growing up. The Fitness Campaign is a 10-week program where children log their exercise in a chart. The goal is to score 100 points each week. Participants who mail the chart back to me will receive a special certificate honoring their achievement," Senator Farley said.

Families who would like free copies of the Youth Fitness Campaign materials, can call Senator Farley's office toll-free at (800) 224-5201. Orders can also be e-mailed to the Senator at: Farley@senate.state.ny.us