Community Fitness Initiative: The development and effectiveness of a unique community based intervention

Background: Improving the health of children and families and reducing childhood obesity rates require commitment by families, community leaders and health professionals. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Children's Hospital Boston, United Way of Massachusetts and a previously existing adult community exercise facility, formed a unique partnership and developed an innovative way to provide physical activity for overweight children.

Objective: To connect children diagnosed as overweight or at risk to a child oriented physical activity and wellness program in the heart of a community where the services are most needed.

Methods: The gym offers a fitness program designed to help children manage weight by living active and healthy lives. Providers at Children's Hospital Boston, and affiliated health centers refer patients whose BMI is at or over the 85th percentile. At this gym, the patients receive physical activity intervention, and nutrition training free of charge. The gym is designed with kid friendly equipment to get kids excited about exercise.

Results: 112 children have been enrolled into the gym with equal number of males and females. Most of them are between 7-15 years of age, and children of color. Pre-intervention: 79% had 2 hours and less of physical activity every week. This includes 35% who had zero hours of physical activity each week. Of the112 children initially enrolled 69% have actively participated.

Conclusion: More community based interventions providing physical activity and nutrition education for children are needed to help better manage weight and increase knowledge about healthful lifestyles.