An active lifestyle leads to healthier outcomes, and there is no better time to teach this than when children are young. As our culture evolves, there is a proliferation of hours spent sedentary and indoors. Part of this problem stems from a change in our economy, with increasing time spent behind screens working, while another part comes from how we consume entertainment. These behaviors are not only pervasive through adults but reflect down the generational line, with many children now spending more time indoors and less time burning energy.

According to the CDC, childhood obesity affects nearly 15 million children and adolescents in the United States. Because of this, obesity-related conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, breathing problems, and type 2 diabetes have been on the rise.

Since 2009, Healthy Kids Running Series has been promoting an active lifestyle and inspiring many children to believe in themselves. The non-profit, which has 500 races all over the country, both encourages and teaches children in the sport of running from a young age. We know that an elite VO2 max has a positive correlation to longevity, decreases risks for all-cause mortality, and is a buffer against many obesity-related disorders. Teaching kids about active habits from a young age will engrain these attitudes for many years to come, and will allow them to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

To further encourage these children, Spangler Subaru donated BPA-free water bottles to all runners participating in local races this spring. The local chapter, which holds races at Highland Park in Richland Township, has around 200 registered racers ranging from ages 2 to 14. As a brand made up of enthusiastic outdoor adventure seekers, we are proud to sponsor our local runners. Good luck at the races this season!