LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Moves Coalition is sounding the alarm on the state’s youth health crisis, with alarming statistics showing that approximately one-third of Michigan children are classified as overweight or obese. Even more concerning, fewer than one in four Michigan children are meeting the national physical activity recommendations. In response to these statistics, hundreds of students and teachers gathered at the Michigan State Capitol on Thursday for a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of physical activity in education.
Mike Stack, chair of the Michigan Moves Coalition, addressed the crowd, explaining that in today’s society, inactivity has become the easier choice for many. “The reality is we live in a world where the inactive choice is the easy choice, and we’re trying to turn the tide on that,” Stack said, emphasizing the importance of shifting the cultural norm towards healthier lifestyles.
The Capitol lawn was transformed into a lively schoolyard, with more than 300 students and educators participating in the event. Activities were centered around promoting the value of physical health and encouraging children to engage in movement from an early age. The event’s motto, “Be smart, exercise our heart, finding our pulse is a good place to start,” was shared by Debra Berkey, a member of the Michigan Physical Activity Committee, who also emphasized the need to inspire physical activity at a young age.
“It’s not all about sports. This is about being physically active, period,” Berkey said, underscoring the broader message that fostering an appreciation for physical activity at an early age can create lifelong habits.
Teachers participating in the event were clear about the significance of integrating physical activity into children’s daily routines. Jeff Stevenson, a teacher from Mid-Michigan, noted that the goal of the event was to ensure that all children, not just athletes, find physical activities they enjoy. “We’re hoping that students who may not be the athletes are still going to find something fun that they want to do, so we can keep them active and healthy throughout their whole lives,” Stevenson said.
Beyond the physical health benefits, educators also highlighted the mental and emotional advantages of physical activity. Stack pointed out that exercise can be as effective as medication for treating issues like depression and anxiety. “We know exercise can be as effective as some medications for treating things such as depression and anxiety,” Stack said, further emphasizing the holistic benefits of regular physical activity.
The event on the Capitol lawn served as a powerful reminder of the role that physical activity can play in improving the overall health and well-being of Michigan’s youth. With efforts like these, the Michigan Moves Coalition hopes to inspire a shift toward a more active, healthier future for the state’s children.
