Beginning January 16, 2006, the Jewish Community Center (JCC) will begin a fun and creative way for children of all ages to learn the basics of fitness and develop a positive self image. The programs will include a variety of games, as well as focusing on the three elements of fitness: endurance, strength, and flexibility. Kids will enjoy getting fit while building self confidence.

“Behaviors involving physical activity and nutrition are the cornerstone of preventing obesity in children and adolescents,” says Judy Walls, personal trainer. “Over the last two decades, rates for overweight children have more than doubled so that one–third of the children in the US is overweight.”

Walls continues, saying she’s “proud the JCC is able to provide assistance to children who are not getting enough exercise at home or at school.”

The program will meet two times a week at the JCC gymnasium. All fitness levels are welcome; the focus is on making fitness fun. Grades will be broken up from: 1st – 3rd grade; 4th – 6th grade; and 7th – 9th grade.

Beginning January 9th at 5:30 a.m., the JCC will have a boot camp for adults. This military style training will consist of a variety of stretching, basic calisthenics and running. Boot camp is open to all fitness levels. For more information, call (803) 787-2023, or stop by at 306 Flora Drive in northeast Columbia.

Contact Amanda Daggett, director of Marketing & Membership Katie & Irwin Kahn Jewish Community Center at (803) 787-2023 ext. 203, (803) 462-1337 fax or visit www.jewishcolumbia.org.