Weight loss is not about dieting… It is the result of discovering a New LifeStyle that includes lots of daily fun activities, exercise,
and good nutrition A Comprehensive Program Children require different weight-loss programs than adults do because children have different needs. A child's weight-reduction program must ensure enough nutrients for growth and development,
and it must reduce body fat without reducing muscle tissue. In general, programs for children should focus on long-term efforts to control weight gain rather than attempts to lose weight quickly. Often children may need only to hold weight constant while they grow in height. Adult diets can be dangerous for children, even among older children dieting by adult standards may be inapppropriate. When weight loss is necessary for a child, experts recommend reducing calorie intake
by 20 to 30%, primarily through cutting down on dietary fats. In any case, parents should consult with a physician before placing a child on a program. The LifeStyle Approach Fit Kids are educated to understand the health risks
associated with over-weight and obesity, as well as the physical, psychological and social consequences. The principles of behavior modification used for adults can be applied to children, but methods are different. This is partly because goals of weight loss or good health care are rarely sufficient motivation for young children to change eating and exercise habits. In addition, since children depend upon their parents for food selection and scheduling of activity,
LifeStyle programs must involve the parents. At Fit Kids fitness training, team sports and nutrition education work hand in hand with our healthy weight control program, which focuses on the achievements of realistic short-term goals for sustained weight management. Fit Kids are motivated to participate in a
wide variety of fitness skill building activities and training classes, so that they can ultimately select the ones they enjoy most. Because we are aware that so many overweight or obese children and teens have suffered through bouts with family members, friends and peers who are accusatory, negative, critical and sometimes hostile, Fit Kids provides an atmosphere of support in a positive, upbeat and
flexible tone. Part of our "building blocks" philosophy is to recognize and reward even the tiniest of achievements. |