Gym helps kids learn healthy habits

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Over a third of high school students in New Mexico are considered obese, and the statistics are similar for younger students.

Hoping to help fight childhood obesity the YMCA of Central New Mexico is working to get kids in the gym, hoping to teach them not only how to work out safely but also helping them create healthy habits they’ll carry with them through life.

Traditionally, kids weren’t allowed in gyms and were told not to lift weights. But the Y’s Health and Wellness Director, Carrie Ann Drinville says the obesity epidemic is such a problem that experts have to start fighting it earlier than ever.

Drinville is helping kids work out safely with their families, something she says will both help kids build healthy exercise habits early. She says that’s much better than forcing it on older children who are already overweight and may be struggling with the physical and mental problems that often come with obesity. Plus, she says this is another way parents can spend time with their children.