Kids can GO FAR!

With childhood obesity at an all time high, we as parents and educators need to do our part to motivate todays youth to get active.  One way that schools are getting involved is with a program called GO FAR or Go Out For A Run.  


The Facts About Childhood Obesity

• In North Carolina, over 30% of children are either overweight or obese. North Carolina has the 5th worst ranking in the United States for childhood obesity among 10 to 17 year olds.
• Guilford County’s childhood obesity statistics are even worse than the state averages.
  
• Overweight children have a 70-80% chance of becoming overweight or obese adults.
  
• Obesity in adulthood increases the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, sleep apnea, arthritis, and general poor health.
  
• There are more than 25 scientific studies that show a positive relationship between a child’s level of physical activity as a factor of overall health and academic achievement. Children who are more active and generally healthier tend to perform better academically.
  
  

What is GO FAR?

• GO FAR is a nonprofit organization that is designed as a 10-week fitness program initiated to help combat childhood obesity.
• This program is designed for children of all abilities and promotes healthy eating habits and good character.
• Curriculum is taught each practice during cool down that teaches children and adults how to set goals, reach goals and successfully and safely complete a 5K run or walk/run as well as healthy eating habits and tips.

GO FAR at Southwest Elementary

• GO FAR practices are held two days a week, Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting March 13th and ending the week before the race on May 12th.
• There are 110 students participating this year from SWE!  Teachers, staff, and parents are encouraged to get involved with both practices and on race day to support this great cause.  Many of our teachers, staff, and parents have already committed this year.
• If you have not already, make sure that you register for the race that will be held in downtown High Point on May 12, 2012.
• Students will report to practice at 2:30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays dressed and ready.  Parents need to pick up their children at 3:45 each Tuesday and Thursday.
• Parents are encouraged to run with their children at practices, at home, and on race day.   It is a great way to get the whole family involved!

 GO FAR Tips

• Setting specific goals is a a great way to stay motivated. Setting and reaching a goal is the best way to see your progress.
• To be successful in running and all you do it is important to have a good attitude. Set realistic goals, practice hard and keep going when the going gets tough.
• GO Slow. It is ok to slow down.
• Avoid running the hottest part of the day. Choose early morning and late evening when the sun is low.
• Run in the shade. Find a trail that is in a wooded area to stay out of direct sun.
• Wear a hat and sunscreen.
• Drink plenty of water. Drink before, during and after your workout.
• Listen to your body! Don’t ignore signs and symptoms of over heating like dizziness, headache, fatigue and nausea. Get to a cool place quickly!
• Running shoes should be replaced every 4 to 6 months.  Check your running shoes and make sure that they fit well and have good traction and support.
• On the day of the race, think calm, positive thoughts. Just prior to the race, we will do some warm-up activities like jumping jacks and running in place. When you line up at the start of the race take a minute to look down and make sure your shoes are tied in a double knot. Then you are ready to go!!

GO FAR Testimonials 

• "My daughter, who has made it her mission to get out of PE whenever possible since kindergarten, signed up for the program at Southwest Elementary this year and thoroughly enjoyed it. I was more than a little surprised when she asked me to sign the permission form to participate, and figured she might drop out about midway. Her farther and I couldn't have been more proud of her when she finished the race on Saturday. Academics have always come very easy for her, but physical education and sports are more intimidating and something she tends to avoid if given a choice. Finishing the 5K has boosted her confidence tremendously and she's eager to do it again--I am beyond thrilled to see that glimmer of resilience and perseverance in her." ~Yvonne (Mom from SWE)
• My kids and I have run in your road races for the past 3 years. Your program has changed our family and our fitness goals."  ~M. Townsend, Guilford County Schools, North Carolina

See you at the GO FAR finish line!

Saturday, May 12, 2012