ING KiDS ROCK LA Raises Awareness about Childhood Obesity

ING KiDS ROCK foundation has held the "grand finale" of its ING Run For Something Better program at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif. The event included more than 1,500 kids in grades K-7, who ran the "final mile" after weeks of training to become ING KiDS ROCK marathoners. The foundation conducts this program as a non-competitive, non-timed event as a part of a school-based running program aimed at spreading awareness about childhood obesity and how it can be tackled through prevention.

The ING Run For Something Better training program involves children who accumulate 25.2 miles running at the time and place of their own choosing and at their own pace. They can add up their miles at home, at school, during recess and other such places comfortably. The track of the mileage is kept by a parent, teacher or facilitator. On the day of the race, each child finishes the last mile to complete their first marathon. Each child is given a medal and T-shirt for his or her accomplishment.

Rhonda Mims, president of the ING Foundation and senior vice president, ING U.S. Office of Corporate Responsibility, said: "As the official charity of ING KiDS ROCK, the ING Run For Something Better program is helping get kids on the road to adopting healthier lifestyles through exercise and healthy eating. This initiative is a fun way for kids to achieve a sense of accomplishment for their discipline leading up to the event, and we hope they continue running for years to come."

Running legend Rod Dixon, who was among those to cheer on the runners, said: "A love of physical fitness starts early and sets kids up for success in life on many levels. Running isn't about punishment — it should be about having fun, getting outside and learning that being healthy feels great. At ING KiDS ROCK, we encourage an environment where kids cross the finish line with smiles on their faces and everyone is a winner."

ING KiDS ROCK is aligned with the President's Challenge, which encourages youth fitness as well as first lady Michelle Obama's "Let's Move!" initiative. Runners get an opportunity to earn President's Challenge rewards for staying active and maintaining a track of their progress with other children around the country.

Photo Credit: hisks