Philosophy
"A Call to Action"
According to the latest National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, over 97 million Americans are overweight or obese. The prevalence of obesity increased from 12 percent in 1991 to 17.9 percent in 1998 in the United States and is now considered to be a problem of epidemic proportion. There are fewer opportunities to burn calories in daily life.- Many schools have done away with or cut back on physical education
- Children watch more television daily
- The workplace has become increasingly automated
- Household chores are assisted by labor-saving machinery
- Walking and cycling have been replaced by automobile travel for all but the shortest distances
- Walking to a neighborhood school is often not possible due to saftey issues
Inadequate physical activity is a behavior pattern that is typically established during youth, persists into adulthood and contributes to poor health status. Extensive evidence has documented the health benefits of regular physical activity for both the body and mind. Regular moderate physical activity can substantially reduce the risk of developing chronic illness like heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. Physical activity also has a direct, positive benefit on the functioning of the brain. Several research studies suggest that there is a link between physical activity and improved learning. Movement stimulates the learning process and results in more efficient and productive classroom time for children. In 1999, millions of fifth, seventh, and ninth grade students in California schools participated in a statewide physical fitness test. The fitness test consisted of six exercises that measure different aspects of fitness including upper body strength, body composition, flexibility and endurance. Other medical and epidemiological studies confirm the trend towards diminished physical activity by American children. The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System of school-aged children attending a daily physical education class has decreased significantly over the past decade from 41.6% in 1991 to 29.1% in 1999.
These distressing statistics characterizing the health status of Americans, particularly children in California, indicate a need for action. An obvious place for intervention is the public school system. Currently in California all public schools must adhere to regulations that stipulate a minimum amount of time devoted to physical education. Although the quantity of physical education time has been mandated, the structure and quality of the physical education programs are not stipulated or enforced, nor are there adequate funds appropriated for purchasing and maintaining gym equipment and training teachers. This is where the Cynthia L. & William E. Simon, Jr. Foundation plans to make a difference by introducing the Sound Body Sound Mind program.
