Chesapeake Middle School pushing healthy habits

Staff

Published Tuesday, January 6, 2009

CHESAPEAKE — It’s all a part of developing good health habits now, not later. That’s the motivation behind a variety of activities going on at Chesapeake Middle School.

A week before Christmas staff from St. Mary’s Medical Center came to the school to do health assessments including noting height, weight, blood pressure and cholesterol. Then in May the team will be back to check out the same students to find out what progress they have made.

On Jan 29 will be a comprehensive wellness fair with exhibits in the cafeteria and exercise demonstrations in the gym.

“Obviously it is to help them get an awareness of the importance of nutrition and exercise,” said Cecili Nida, health and physical education teacher at the school. “Awareness is the main reason. A lot of kids didn’t know how much habits would influence cholesterol. You don’t want to preach or make them scared. But it is easier to make your habits now, because when you’re 40, it’s harder.”

Also part of fostering good exercise habits is the school’s Walking Club that meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for a half-hour after school. Started in September the club either takes laps around the track if weather permits or on a designated route throughout the building. Anyone interested can join at any time.

Any health and fitness organizations wanting to participate in the wellness fair can contact Nida at (740) 867-3972.

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