Research shows that regular physical activity builds healthy bones and muscles, improves muscular strength and endurance, reduces the probability for developing chronic disease risk factors, improves self-esteem, and reduces stress and anxiety.1 Also, recent studies have indicated an association between higher physical fitness scores and improved academic outcomes, including academic performance, attendance and discipline.2

But do you know if your kids are getting enough physical activity? Fitnessgram® is a fitness assessment and reporting program for youth. The objective of Fitnessgram is to increase parental awareness of children's fitness levels by developing an easy way for physical education teachers to report the results of physical fitness assessments.

The assessments include a variety of health-related physical fitness tests that assess aerobic capacity; body composition; and muscular strength, endurance, and flexibility. The FITNESSGRAM does not compare students to other students; instead, scores are compared to the Healthy Fitness Zone® standards to determine students' overall physical fitness.

To encourage physical activity The Cooper Institute has joined forces with NFL PLAY 60 to introduce Fitnessgram into schools and after-school community organizations. NFL PLAY 60 is the NFL’s national youth health and fitness campaign. The program encourages kids to be active for at least 60 minutes a day.

Here in Dallas, we are very excited that the NFL PLAY 60 FITNESSGRAM partnership will be represented at the NFL Experience at the Dallas Convention Center starting January 27, 2011! The NFL Experience is an event built around Super Bowl XLV and includes interactive games, displays, and entertainment attractions.

Look for the interactive NFL PLAY 60 FITNESSGRAM exhibit located in the kids area.

We hope you join us in encouraging kids to be active,  promoting NFL PLAY 60 FITNESSGRAM and spreading the news about the program! If you are in the Dallas area from January 27, 2011 through February 6, 2011, we hope you stop by the NFL Experience at the Dallas Convention Center and see us!

1CDC (October 2010). Physical Activity and Health of Young People. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/HealthyYouth/physicalactivity/facts.htm
2Kelder, S. (2010). Stuck in the Middle:  The False Choice Between health and Educatioon in Texas Middle Schools.  RGK Foundation, Austin, TX, 16.