Obese? overweight? What's in a name?

Child obesity seems to be on the rise. At least that is what is being reported a great deal in the media.

There were a number of articles in the Globe and Mail about obesity and kids' level of fitness. One of the articles,Tough talk on a heavy issue, explores the issue of childhood obesity and also about the necessity for doctors to tell parents that their child is overweight or obese.

How did we get to this place that many of our children are overweight and obese? A lot has to do with our sedentary lifestyle of television and video games, the food we are eating, and how in one breath we talk about more fitness yet do not provide enough Physical Education and fitness in our education system.

The health of this generation is at risk for increased diabetes and other weight related problems.

Two of the other articles spoke to getting our kids fit through child-centred fitness centres and some TV shows that promote activity.

It all begs the question of what are we as parents doing? Although I'm sure the producers of the TV shows and owners of the fitness centres are well-intentioned, do we need our kids to be in front of TV's or on stationary bikes with video games to get fit.

Dr. Heather McKay of the Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute at the end of one of the articles seems to sum things up as I see it. She states, "...And I don't think you're going to solve the obesity epidemic with thousands of video interactive games."

Parents need to be proactive. We need to be positive role models for our children. Fitness Centres are not bad but we need to make some other choices to ensure and active and healthy lifestyle for our children. Walking not driving to school. Ensuring that they are eating healthy foods. Getting out and playing in the parks and playgrounds with our children. Teaching them some active games.

Do something active on a daily basis.