Technology has been a great benefit in our world today, but with an increase in techie gadgets, and video games available for kids, most prefer to sit inside and play on their I pad or computer than to get outside and play soccer or other activities.

Obesity rates have doubled since the 80's and the nations rise of health related issues of overweight kids, is increasing rapidly.

Health problems like Diabetes, high blood pressure, developmental and emotional issues, asthma bone, muscle and joint discomfort, gallstones and liver disease and depression, are greater in kids who don't get enough exercise and become overweight or obese.

Establishing exercise routines and activities as a lifestyle could drastically decrease the risk for health complications as a child grows.

Family activities of biking, hiking or walking, could enable quality time and togetherness and also increase health in all of us. Research shows kids are happier and healthier when they have a little less structure and more play time outside in nature.

26% of kids in WA are overweight, Oregon is about the same. But Oregon has less Obese kids...In fact Oregon has the least obese children in the nation. (Figure that one out..)

With as much time as we spend on computers, most of us are exhausted by the time we get home and the last thing we want to do is hit the gym or go for a run! But, would you do it if your life depended on it? Because it DOES!

And it is imperative for children to learn this early on, or suffer the health related illness that comes with poor diet and exercise. It is a challenge for all of us.

Luckily 30 minutes of vigorous activity can greatly reduce the risk of some health issues. So that is a great place to start! Find a way to involve your kids early on so they don't struggle with obesity later in life.

Get out and play an impromptu game of 'Freeze Tag' with the kids! (I used to love that game) Enroll them in soccer or basket ball. Hike Badger together! Or invest in some good bikes! We have amazing river front trails!

The point is: Be aware, get educated, and get out and MOVE and help the people you love to do the same! It could just save their life! 

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