Houston doesn't have a reputation as a fit city. "Men's Fitness" named the southeastern Texas city as America's "Fattest City" in 2005 in the magazine's annual survey, and it finished 6th in 2009. Houston received low grades in sports participation, city recreation facilities and parks and open space. It doesn't mean, however, that children can't get on the road to good health in Houston. The city does offer physical activity options that will help prevent a sedentary lifestyle.
Golf
Sports programs for children often focus on that particular activity. The First Tee of Houston/F.M. Law Park program teaches values and character-building traits, in addition to golf. The program, for kids ages 7 to 18, has nine levels that a student can advance to after meeting criteria from the previous level. The requirements include shooting a minimum golf score and getting 80 percent or better on a written or verbal test about life skills such as appreciating diversity and showing sportsmanship. The program is headquartered at F.M. Law Park with affiliates at five other courses in the city--Sharpstown, Memorial Park, Brock Park, Gus Wortham and Melrose Golf Course.
Team Sports
Kids can learn about teamwork by joining a league offered by the the Houston Parks and Recreation Department. Kids ages 4 to 18 can play baseball, T-ball, softball, basketball and soccer. Additionally, kids ages 6 to 18 can compete in flag football and volleyball.
Swimming
Learning to swim is not only beneficial for your health, but it's a skill that can save someone from drowning. The Houston Parks and Recreation Department and the Greater Houston Area Chapter of the American Red Cross formed a partnership to offer swim lessons for children 6 and older. The classes range from the basics like floating to advanced skills like jumping into deep water. Families should note that a parent or guardian must be at the pool for each lesson.
Tennis
Children can play tennis outdoors year-round in Houston's warm climate. The city's parks and recreation department provides the needed lessons with its free Youth Tennis Program. Kids ages 4 to 18 can take tennis classes at 35 sites throughout the city. The department provides equipment for use during the sessions.
Farmers' Market
In the 2009 "Men's Fitness" survey, Houston scored a F in the Overweight/Sedentary category, a D+ in Junk Food and a C in Nutrition. Parents can help change a child's eating habits by taking him to one of the nearly dozen farmers' markets in the city. Farmers sell fresh and organic vegetables and fruits. Let kids select foods that they want to try. Additionally, markets occasionally have live music and cooking demonstrations.
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