In an effort to help children and their families lead healthier and more active lives, Fit Kids of Arizona and Saucony are sponsoring the Fit Kids Run for Good program in local public schools for a second year. Through a $10,000 grant from the Saucony National Run for Good Foundation, Fit Kids has initiated the program to help kids become and stay active after school.

Fit Kids Run for Good trained staff coach the kids on running techniques, form and endurance, and encourage them to lead a fun and a healthy lifestyle.

The eight-week program began on Jan. 18 at Cottonwood Elementary School. The 50 students who are enrolled attend Fit Kids Run for Good every Wednesday from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Additionally, the Fit Kids Run for Good program also will start second year programs in Flagstaff later this spring.

Fit Kids of Arizona is a regional community health initiative developed by Northern Arizona Healthcare, with programs at Verde Valley Medical Center and Flagstaff Medical Center addressing one of the largest healthcare concerns facing the U.S. – childhood obesity. The clinical programs at each location assist children and their families in learning about healthy lifestyle choices while reducing the problems and illnesses associated with excess weight. The Fit Kids team also focuses on taking a preventive community approach to help families live healthier lives.

For more information on the Fit Kids of Arizona program, call 928 639-6343 or visit NAHealth.com/Our Services/FitKidsofArizona.