Governor Doyle Challenges Wisconsin Schools to Increase Physical Activity

MADISON, Wis. - Starting September 6, 2005 through December 2, 2005, many Wisconsin schools will be participating in special Fall edition of the Wisconsin Governor’s Challenge, a statewide initiative to encourage children in grades K-12 to be more physically active, both at school and at home. The Wisconsin Governor’s Challenge is co-sponsored by the Office of Governor Jim Doyle, Trek Bicycle Corporation, and the Wisconsin Sports Development Corporation. The partnership hopes to rally everyone in the school community, including principals, teachers and parents, to encourage student participation in the special Fall edition of the Wisconsin Governor’s Challenge.

Today, over 15% of Wisconsin’s children are overweight or obese. This escalating problem is resulting in serious health problems for children – more early-onset of diabetes, and more depression, sleep apnea, and risk of heart disease. The reality is sobering: If something isn’t done about childhood obesity, an entire generation will face life-threatening diseases at an earlier age than Wisconsin and the nation has ever seen.

The Wisconsin Governor's Challenge program invites children and adults to participate in a six-week activity program to promote regular physical activity. Participation includes 30 minutes of exercise for adults and 60 minutes for children five days each week for six weeks.

Through participation in the Wisconsin Governor’s Challenge schools hope to reintroduce the idea that engaging in regular physical activity is not only an important part of staying healthy, but is also a great way for children and parents to spend quality family time together. Expanding the parent-teacher partnership beyond academics to increasing physical activity and encouraging healthy eating is crucial in improving children’s overall health. Since research shows that healthy children learn better, it’s a win-win situation.

"We need the support of Wisconsin educators to take a leadership role in encouraging our kids to become more fit and active," Governor Doyle said. "By participating in the Fall Challenge, you have the power to get your school moving in the right direction. Take the lead and create a school that moves."

Wisconsin schools that have not registered already have until the end of September to do so. To enroll your local school(s) or for more information, contact the Wisconsin Governor’s Challenge office at 608-267-0619 or email challenge@wisconsin.gov

About the Wisconsin Governor’s Challenge
Governor Doyle launched this free, easy-to-use program to motivate everyone in Wisconsin to get active. The Challenge is 30 minutes of activity a day for adults and 60 minutes a day for kids, five days a week for six weeks. From gardening to running, there are over 100 activities to choose from, so there’s something for everyone – whether you are just getting started or staying active is already an integral part of your life. Visit www.wisconsinchallenge.org for more information or to register.