The Fit Kids program at ETSU is one of nine organizations and programs in the state recently honored with a 2010 Shining Star Award, presented by Gov. Phil Bredesen and the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Health.”I am pleased to recognize the work of these organizations to improve the fitness and health of Tennesseans,” Bredesen said. “These groups are blazing a trail to help Tennessee become a healthier state by creating a culture of health in the workplace, schools and across the community.”

The Fit Kids program at ETSU began in 1987, initially at South Side Elementary in Johnson City only.

Due to its overwhelming success, it was soon expanded to all Johnson City elementary schools, and today, more than 3,500 students in 13 elementary schools from Washington, Carter, Unicoi and Hawkins counties participate in the Fit Kids initiative.

The program involves parents, students, teachers, and health care and fitness professionals in activities designed to improve physical wellness, and it is intended to supplement each school’s existing physical education curriculum. However, many of the schools participating in Fit Kids do not have a physical education program, or only employ a part-time teacher.

The initiative involves both assessment and instruction. Children are tested each year to identify fitness levels and areas where improvement is needed. Measurements of cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, upper body strength and abdominal strength are taken.

Graduate students from ETSU are trained in leading exercises and fitness activities at each Fit Kid School.

Fit Kids also hosts three or four health fairs during the year open to students, teachers, administrators and parents. These health fairs provide an opportunity for community health/fitness professionals to get involved in a local school and help educate people on the importance of overall wellness.

At ETSU, the program is housed within the Claudius G. Clemmer College of Education’s Department of Kinesiology, Leisure and Sport Sciences and is coordinated by Amy Greene. Primary funding for the program is provided by Mountain States Health Alliance, The Niswonger Children’s Hospital, Washington County Department of Education, and Hawkins County Coordinated School Health. A recent Niswonger Children’s Hospital grant allows for the creation of new afterschool and community outreach programs.

“Our Shining Star Award winners are encouraging Tennesseans to make simple changes that can lead to big improvements in the health of our state,” said Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN. “We support the efforts of groups like these to find strategies that help motivate people in their communities to become more active and lead more healthful lives.

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