YMCA South Australia moves to combat childhood obesity

September 10, 2019

In an aggressive move against the rise in childhood obesity, members of YMCA South Australia managed recreation centres will receive free membership for their children aged under 10.

The initiative, which is available immediately to all current and new all-access members, has been launched with the aim of encouraging parents and guardians to be active with their children in a bid to combat the current trend towards a sedentary lifestyle.

Advising that the move would create a number of positive outcomes for both children and their families, YMCA South Australia Chief Executive, Haydn Robins stated “childhood obesity is a major issue across the nation and we wanted to provide an incentive for people to act. “Encouraging physical activity is vital for promoting a healthy lifestyle and being active together as a family can increase social bonds and improve relationships and general wellbeing.”

The move takes account of the latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics that show 23% of South Australian children aged between two and 17 years are overweight or obese.

This alarming statistic is supported by the latest Active Healthy Kids Australia report card which grades Aussie kids with a D minus for overall physical activity levels and for screen time. The report goes on to indicate only 1 in 5 children are meeting the recommended level of aerobic activity each day.

Robins added “the more inactive a child is, the greater their risk of becoming overweight and children who engage in physical activities that they enjoy, tend to spend less time in front a screen.

“Free Child Membership is designed to make it easier for a visit to a YMCA centre to become ‘family time’. By removing the cost barrier, what has been a traditional adult-based activity is now practical for the whole family. Our centres are community based and there are many pool and land based activities available that the whole family can participate in.”

To learn more about Free Child Memberships and the YMCA’s current Spring membership promotion visit www.sa.ymca.org.au/gym

20th June 2019 - Research recommends aquatic activity for overweight children

3rd May 2019 - AusPlay survey shows gymnastics as the fastest growing sport in Victoria

30th April 2019 - Latest Ausplay survey shows gradual increase in physical activity

12th December 2018 - Deakin University launch first report that ranks Australian obesity policies on value for money

15th October 2018 - YMCA-managed Aquadome becomes first South Australian fitness business to become Quality Accredited

13th September 2018 - YMCA South Australia to manage new St Clair Recreation Centre

5th September 2018 - World Health Organization advises that lack of exercise puts one in four people at risk

21st June 2018 - YMCA South Australia Active Adults program recognised at industry awards

4th June 2018 - Federal Government backs YMCA South Australia inclusivity and access project

24th April 2018 - YMCA South Australia joins with Fitness Australia in quality partnership

9th March 2018 - Sweet drinks key to childhood obesity gap between rich and poor

16th January 2017 - YMCA South Australia to manage and operate Port Lincoln Leisure Centre

26th September 2016 - New research confirms ongoing challenges in alcohol consumption and overweight children

3rd July 2016 - Australian children slide down global fitness rankings

29th January 2016 - Childhood obesity rates to soar without urgent government intervention

27th April 2015 - Childhood obesity study emphasises importance of exercise for young and old

12th November 2013 - Ensuring South Australian children grow healthy and strong

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