Where would our kids be without positive role models to follow?  How can we expect our kids to be healthy if we don’t provide an example for them to emulate?  Where will they get the motivation to go outside, be active and get their butts off the video game chair with speakers and fridges built in to them…hell, I’m surprised they don’t have toilets built in!

Simple, we can expect them to be where the vast majority actually ARE.  They are without role models.  Not for lack of them but because they are not interested in the things the role models are involved in.  They are NOT healthy because most of the parents aren’t healthy.  They eat like crap, they feel like crap and in turn they produce crap…of course in the bathroom (we all do) but where it matters…in school. 

They are obese, they are lazy, or maybe just too tired from lack of energy due to eating cheetos and pop tarts.  Their poor little developing brains probably don’t have the gas to actually allow them to have an imagination…what little bit of energy it has to spare goes to more important things like breathing.

And finally why are our children not going outside?  Why are fewer playing sports?  It just doesn’t make sense.  I remember growing up and hated hearing the call to come inside.  I know my kids would spend all day outside if they could…even in the winter.  I suspect it is for many of the same reasons as already listed but for one more that I feel is even more important.  What reason do they have to go out and do something?

It seems to me that many children just aren’t that interested to go and do something because there is no one to please.  Many lack the intrinsic motivation to do it on their own…they need someone to be there with them.  If there isn’t a parent present who is there to impress?  We all need a hug and a “great job” now and again - how much more are our kids in need of that?

I want to showcase a couple of our youth SPARKers - Kaelen and Michael.  Trust me when I tell you that these two would gladly being doing this and every other thing active on their own but they don’t have to.  In a family of 6 kids they have a great set of parents (Teresa and Doug - good on you guys) that go that extra mile to be there for their kids.  And trust me when I tell you that they are BUSY taking their kids to tonnes of sports and activities.  I was told the other day that they actually cut the cable for the summer!  WOW!  I only wish I had a better camera to take more phases of these clean and jerks.

Now check this video I found that not only shows there is hope for a less fat future, but also provides a little inspiration…WARNING, you will want to lift after watching.  Check it out and let me know what you think by posting in the comments section.

Workout of the Day:

• 5 Clean and Jerk  135lbs / 95lbs
• 10 Knees to Elbows

5 Rounds For Time