Active Family Challenge encourages families to attain healthy goals
Security Health Plan of Wisconsin, Inc., has announced its support of Marathon County’s Active Family Challenge. The Active Family Challenge is a nine-week program for families with children living in Marathon County. The goal of the program is to promote healthy recreation by providing rewards for families who track their weekly hours of activity. Families that achieve a certain number of activity hours by the end of the program are recognized at a free pool party.
According to BMC Public Health, the exercise habits of children are influenced by the example set forth by their parents. Researchers have found positive correlations between the activity levels between parents and their children. Families that engage in physical activities together develop healthy habits that will likely extend into children’s lives long-term.
Throughout the nine week program, families will track all of their active hours. Activities that count toward the challenge include walking, basketball, biking, swimming and school sports practices. Families will also earn incentives by reaching milestones throughout the challenge. Participants can earn more hours by attending workshops, or trying a new activity. At the end of the challenge, families will have an opportunity to enjoy a pool party and be entered to win prizes.
“The Active Family Challenge is unique in that families are encouraged to work together toward healthy goals,” said Karyn Powers Recreation Superintendent at Marathon County. “This program allows families to focus on making healthy choices over a fixed period of time to earn great rewards and improve their overall fitness and nutrition.” “Security Health Plan is continuously working to enrich lives and improve the health of our communities,” said Security Health Plan Manager of Wellness and Health Promotion Dave Scheuer. “Supporting a program like the Active Family Challenge focuses on helping families make better choices and gives them opportunities to explore, participate in and improve their health.”
The Active Family Challenge begins April 15 and runs through June 15. Families may register March 15-April 20 at the Marathon County Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department office or online. The cost of the program is $25. For more information, visit their website at www. co.marathon.wi.us/Departments/ParksRecreationForestry/ Recreation/ActiveFamilyChallenge.aspx or call 715-261-1559.
