Improving Physical Activity in Colorado Schools

Our country needs each generation to be healthy, well-educated and productive in order to remain competitive and strong. Yet a rise in obesity and a decline in physical activity threaten readiness on each of these fronts. As inactivity becomes the norm in the United States, a growing number of children do not have a chance at a healthy future.

The athletes and coaches of Champions for America’s Future understand the value of physical activity, and recognize that too many kids are losing out because physical activity is not a part of daily life.

The retired admirals and generals of Mission: Readiness know that this crisis is also threatening our national security. In Colorado, 70 percent of youth between the ages of 17 and 24 do not qualify for military service, and obesity is a leading cause of ineligibility.

For these reasons, ensuring that all students are physically active in schools – especially those who face the greatest barriers to physical activity – is vital.

Children between the ages of 6 and 17 need at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day, but a large percentage of kids are not reaching that goal. Colorado ranks 24th in the nation for the percentage of kids who get at least 20 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity four or more times a week, and is one of three states that does not mandate PE at any grade level.

Making physical activity a part of every student’s overall education is a goal we should strive to achieve. Changes must be made on a district level to ensure that all kids in Colorado learn how to be healthy and active.