FRESH fitness for children
Wed 11th March 2015
Free fun courses to encourage children aged five to 11 to enjoy a healthier lifestyle are being launched in Beverley.
The FRESH (Fun, Revitalise, Exercise, Socialise Healthy) programme encourages children to take part in new, fun fitness activities to get fit and achieve a healthy weight.
The free initiative is based on the principle that small changes in lifestyle can have a big impact on health.
It is a 20-week healthy lifestyles programme provided by East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s sport, play and arts team, commissioned by the council’s public health service.
The emphasis of the course will be on fun and imaginative physical activity, with sessions on the principles of healthy eating too. Community sports coaches will be on hand to guide and support the children throughout the programme.
Community sports coach Adam Gibson said: “FRESH is the ideal starting point if you want your child to get more active or if you are concerned about your child’s weight. It is a positive programme that promotes a healthier lifestyle through fun-based physical activities.
Councillor Jonathan Owen, chairman of the East Riding health and wellbeing board, said: “I urge anybody who might be considering the programme for their child to do so, because it has the potential to change lives, not just now but for years to come.
“Childhood is the perfect time to develop good lifestyle habits because they are likely to stay with you into adulthood and make a real difference to long-term health in the future.”
Parents and guardians are encouraged to attend some of the sessions, to share exercise ideas, healthy eating information and feedback on how their child is doing.
The course at East Riding Leisure Beverley starts on Tuesday 17 March, from 4pm to 5pm.
Anyone who would like their child to take part in the FRESH programme, or would like more information, is asked to ring 01482 395320, as places are limited.
