In America, it’s not surprising that obesity and mental health struggles aren’t limited to adults. Kids also are contending with the adverse effects of inactivity, unhealthy diets, and excessive screen time.
The statistics are alarming. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in five children and adolescents is obese, and childhood obesity has more than tripled since the 1970s.
The pandemic accelerated kids’ physical inactivity and obesity levels. By 2030, it is estimated that more than 30% of kids in the United States will be obese.
"Covid exacerbated what was already an extremely concerning childhood obesity epidemic in our country," says Adam Zeitsiff, a fitness industry executive and the chair of the National Health & Fitness Alliance (NHFA). "The need for intervention is dire, as childhood obesity increases the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease."
The fitness industry is facing an opportunity—some would say an obligation—to help kids become more active to improve both their physical and mental health.
“The fitness industry has a larger responsibility to support the future generation by promoting healthy habits early on, which can help minimize the long-term healthcare burden associated with chronic diseases and mental health issues,” says Cedric Bryant, PhD, FACSM, the president and CEO of the American Council on Exercise (ACE).
As industry professionals pursue greater advocacy, serving today’s youth can help reinforce the value, raise the visibility, and underscore the credibility of health clubs and studios as well.
"It's incumbent on our industry to prioritize our offerings to support the health and wellbeing of the future generation," Zeitsiff adds. "By addressing childhood obesity, we can improve quality of life, reduce healthcare costs, and create a healthier future for generations to come."
Ultimately, this is a win-win for kids, the fitness industry, and the healthcare burden. Now is the time to act.