News Releases

‘Youth BEE FIT’ Program Takes the Sting Out of the Childhood Obesity Epidemic

Houston,Texas, August 12, 2003 – Helping kids stay trim and healthy for life. That’s the goal in Memorial Hermann Wellness Center’s Youth BEE FIT program. On machines that are tailor made to fit their smaller bodies, children learn proper exercise technique from certified instructors and have fun at the same time.

Concern is mounting over the dramatic rise in obesity among kids in the United States. Studies conclude today’s youth are not as fit as previous generations. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension-- diseases typically associated with adulthood-- are increasingly being diagnosed in children. All are diseases that can be prevented through proper nutrition and exercise.

The exercise equipment used in the BEE FIT program is engineered to fit the bodies of children between the ages of 8 to 12. Fitness Program Manager John Rutigliano says that “kids who do try to use machines designed for adults have a greater risk of injury.” The machines are safe for children to use and it teaches them the correct exercise positions, allowing them to get the most out of their exercise routine.

Children who have participated in Memorial Hermann’s BEE FIT program say that they feel better about themselves and want to continue the program. But why would a child want to begin the program in the first place? “Kids are constantly hearing about the benefits of adult exercise and what repercussions can happen if they don’t live healthfully,” says Rutigliano. ”They too become interested in changing their bodies.”

The Youth BEE FIT program is open to children 8 to 12 years of age. All classes are supervised by a certified instructor. It’s available only at the Memorial Hermann Wellness Center, located at 7731 Southwest Freeway between Beechnut and Fondren. For more information on the Youth BEE FIT program, call 713-448-WELL.

For more information, contact Media Relations.