According to a 2009 study by the Centers for Disease Control, Indiana had one of the United States' highest rates of obesity with 29.5 percent of its adult population considered obese. Combating the obesity epidemic begins in childhood where the practice of good fitness and nutrition can be made a habit. Within the state of Indiana, there are a wide variety of activities designed to promote activity, fitness and fun among the state's youth.
The Great Outdoors
Situated within the state capital of Indianapolis is Fort Harrison State Park. 1,700 acres make up the park's landscape and consist of hiking trails, running paths, picnic areas, barns and fishing waters. During the winter months, Fort Harrison State Park welcomes children of all ages to sled down one of the region's largest hills. In addition to sledding, children may engage in cross country skiing with their parents or ice skating on the park's ponds.
Horseback Riding
Pittsboro, Indiana is home to Havendell Farm, a 20-acre horse training facility. The farm's indoor and outdoor training arenas afford children ample space for riding lessons and summer camp training. The school's instructors teach in both English and Western styles of riding and educate children ages nine and up about the fundamentals of horseback riding. From proper grooming care to show techniques, Havendell Farm engages students of all horseback riding levels.
The Beach
Indiana and beach are not typically two words that are synonymous with one another. At The Indiana Beach amusement resort, however, they go hand in hand. Located along Indiana's Lake Shafer, the resort provides outdoor family friendly activities to more than 750,000 visitors annually. Within the park itself, there are more than 40 rides for children, families and adventure seekers. Just outside the park's gates, families can also experience the waters of Lake Shafer. Whether jet skiing, fishing or soaking up the sun, children will enjoy the waters.
Kids' Triathlon
South Bend, Indiana, home to Notre Dame's Fighting Irish, has also been the site of an annual kids' triathlon. Children ages 5 to 14 are eligible to participate in the race held each July at the Potawatomi Park Swimming Pool. The race consists of a 25 yard swim, a 1.3 mile bicycle ride and a half mile run. Prior to race day, all participants must have their bicycles reviewed by Allbright's Cycling and Fitness Center to ensure safety during the race.
Soccer
Soccer is the most popular sport among youths in the United States. The Indiana Youth Soccer League oversees more than 140 member clubs across the state which are made up of 56,000 youth players. Children ages 4 to 19 are eligible for play within Indiana Youth Soccer. The annual soccer season is held from September 1 through August 31 and is devoted to creating a positive and healthy playing environment for its players.
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