Starting Kids Early on the Road to Good Heath
Staying physically active in and out of school can give kids the foundation they need to live longer, healthier lives by helping to prevent chronic diseases. Research shows that aerobic fitness, even more than weight (BMI) is one of the strongest predictors for how long a person will live, and yet almost 30% of Lincoln’s children do not meet aerobic fitness standards. Increasing opportunities for kids to access and participate in sports and other physical activities can help to set them on the road to good health.
Benefits of Learning to Ride a Bike
One of the best ways for kids to get and stay physically active is riding a bicycle, and the earlier they start, the greater the benefit. Riding a bike helps kids maintain a healthy weight, improves cardiovascular fitness, reduces stress, depression, and anxiety. Cycling boosts muscle flexibility, development, and strength, and builds strong bones and joint mobility. It also aids in brain development – research shows that fit kids do better in school.
Two of the barriers to being more physically active and also participating in sports for kids in lower income neighborhoods are transportation challenges and cost. Bikes provide another option for kids get to practice or just shoot hoops at the neighborhood playground. But first, kids need to learn how to ride a bike.
Be a Part of the All Kids Bike Project
Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln, the Nebraska Sports Council, and the Lincoln YMCA with a grant from the Community Health Endowment of Lincoln are working together on increasing access to physical activity options and sports participation for kids in lower income neighborhoods where the fitness rates are the lowest. The All Kids Bike project is the first in a series of initiatives designed to help improve the fitness rates, and overall health, of Lincoln's children.
Business/Organizational Partnerships, Community Support
The All Kids Bike project will supply transitional training bikes, helmets, and bike safety education in all Lincoln elementary school physical education classes. To accomplish this, we are looking to partner with Lincoln businesses and organizations to help underwrite the program. Contact Matt O'Rourke, at MOrourke@HealthyLincoln.org or call him at 402-802-7670 for more information about sponsorship options or download this information sheet. You can also donate here.
