Fitness Councils to gift three 100,000 fitness centers to Colorado schools

Gov. John Hickenlooper today announced that fitness icon and chairman of the National Foundation for Governors’ Fitness Councils (NFGFC) Jake Steinfeld has selected Colorado to kick-off its 2017 DON’T QUIT! fitness campaign. The NFGFC will deliver $100,000 fitness centers to three Colorado schools that demonstrate leadership in getting and keeping their students fit.

“We are thrilled that Jake Steinfeld and his organization have chosen to help Colorado’s children get fit,” said Gov. Hickenlooper. “Keeping our kids active is one of the keys to helping them lead healthy lives in adulthood. We encourage every elementary and middle school in Colorado to nominate their school to be in the running for a brand new fitness center.”

The nomination process opens today and will run through the end of May. Educators in Colorado’s elementary and middle schools are encouraged to nominate their school now at www.natgovfit.org.

“I’ve declared war on childhood obesity and it’s inspiring to see elected leaders like Governor Hickenlooper immediately jump on board and welcome us into their state to help fight this disease. In fact, every state leader that I’ve met with recognizes that obesity is neither a democrat nor republican issue, it’s a kids issue and all have vowed to do everything possible to help,” said Jake Steinfeld. “I’ve traveled extensively throughout the United States delivering DON’T QUIT! Fitness Centers and the response from students, teachers and the community has been unbelievable. Kids are excited about working out and being physically active and, as a result, their academic performance and self-esteem are skyrocketing. Now, Colorado schools have an opportunity to make a change that will have a lasting impact on kids well into their future.”

The NFGFC program will make its way into all 50 states in the coming years. Each fitness center is financed through public/private partnerships. TuffStuff Fitness International provides all of the fitness equipment, which is manufactured in the United States. The Foundation’s goal is to build a nation of the fittest, healthiest kids in the world.

“I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact fitness centers have had on students and their communities. When you provide schools with tools and inspiration, you’ll be amazed by the changes that take place,” said Steinfeld. “Our children are our most precious resource and by providing them with a strong foundation in health and fitness, we can feel confident that they’ll excel beyond their wildest dreams.”

Physical activity and exercise are shown to help prevent and treat more than 40 chronic diseases, enhance individual health and quality of life, and reduce health care costs. In schools, studies show that physical activity improves academic achievement, increases confidence and self-esteem, reduces discipline problems, cuts absenteeism, and fosters better interpersonal relationships.

For more information about the NFGFC or to download a nomination form, visit www.natgovfit.org.