Let's Move

What your family can learn from the First Lady

By Yardley Montague, UVA Student Fitness Coordinator, Personal Trainer and Group Exercise Instructor

On February 9, 2010, First Lady Michelle Obama launched a groundbreaking national campaign called Let’s Move, designed to address the nation’s epidemic of childhood obesity.

In announcing the campaign, Mrs. Obama said: “The physical and emotional health of an entire generation and the economic health and security of our nation are at stake. This isn’t the kind of problem that can be solved overnight, but with everyone working together, it can be solved. So, let’s move.” 

Health Toll of Obesity

The healthcare cost of obesity-related diseases is currently about $147 billionannually and is likely to rise; one in three children in America is either overweight or obese—a rate that has nearly tripled in 30 years. Too many of our nation’s children will face a lifetime of chronic obesity-related health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, cancer and asthma.

Parents Take the Lead

The First Lady sees parents as the key to encouraging kids to make healthier choices in all aspects of their lives. One of the campaign’s primary goals is to provide parents with the information, tools and support they need to make decisions that will positively impact their family’s health.

A wealth of resources is available for parents at letsmove.gov.

Parents will also soon have clearer labeling on packaged foods, such as those in vending machines, and can feel better about what their child is being served at school.

Healthier Schools

Children currently consume half of their daily calories while at school. The Obama Administration has allocated $10 billion over 10 years to improve the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program. Let’s Move is also working with major school food suppliers to ensure that every school in the U.S. has access to healthy, affordable food to serve to students. 

Mrs. Obama also stressed the importance of kids increasing their level of physical activity. Children need 60 minutes of active play every day. But far too many kids spend their days on the couch in front of the TV; some for up to 7.5 hours per day! Let’s Move is working to modify and expand the President’s Physical Fitness Challenge and has partnered with the U.S. Department of Education to ensure that the quality and availability of physical education is maintained in schools. 

A Challenge Worth Pursuing

Clearly, the First Lady is tackling an issue that is of the utmost importance; however, the road ahead is sure to be long and difficult. Hopefully, Let’s Move—along with parents and schools—will help protect America’s children from a lifetime of inactivity, unhealthy life choices and obesity.  

Get Going!

Create a healthier home environment with these 5 simple steps from the Let’s Move campaign. Need ideas on how to get your kids moving? Try these fun, family activities that your children will love.