Dr. Muscle Youth Programs

The overall health and fitness of American children, has become alarming. As early as 1982, Blair found that approximately 20% of American children, between 8 and 9 million, were 'at risk' due to low fitness levels. Large declines in aerobic fitness levels have been reported in children (Updyke & Willett, 1989; Kuntzleman & Reiff, 1992; Corbin & Pangrazzi, 1992). Nationwide surveys indicate that many children are not at the fitness levels associated with enhanced health (Ross, Dotson, Gilbert & Katz, 1985; Ross & Pate, 1987). Sallis, Patterson, Buono & Nader (1988) reported that the associations between physical activity and cardiovascular disease risk factors are similar for children and adults.

Studies have found that childhood inactivity and poor fitness levels track into adulthood where sedentary habits have their impact (Blair, 1988; Dennison, Straus, Mellitis & Charney, 1988; Blair, Clark, Cureton & Powell, 1989; Zwiren, 1992). Other studies show that hypertension and hyperlipidemia also track from childhood to adulthood (Clarke, Schrott, Leaverton, Connor & Lauer, 1978; Freedman, Shear, Srivanisan, Webber & Berenson, 1985; Webber, Srinivasan, Wattingney & Berenson, 1991). These risk factors, beginning in childhood, contribute to adult risk for coronary heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes.

Many of the 10 leading causes of death and disability for adults have their biological and ecological roots in childhood (Kimm & Kwiterovich, 1995). Despres, Bouchard & Malina (1990) suggested that although the end stages of chronic degenerative diseases become manifested in adulthood, the processes underlying these diseases often begins during childhood.

Preventive measures should be initiated early, before the onset of disease, if improvements in morbidity and mortality statistics are to be achieved. It may be easier to establish healthful habits during childhood than later in life since childhood is the opportune period for such health development (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1991).

In order to help counteract the declines in children's health and fitness, Dr. Muscle - PTI AMERICA invites you to explore what we offer in the way of leadership and assistance.