A $150,000 donation from South Florida company Alton South Bay is helping expand PHIT Kids Academy, a video-based fitness program that teaches children proper exercise technique and the basics of 14 sports.
The program, run by the national nonprofit PHIT America, shows students how to do everything from jumping jacks to basketball drills. Student Kaylin Palmer, a sixth grader, said she has made new friends through the program and that conditioning has become easier and more fun.
Kevin Palmer, who works with PHIT Kids, said many children have never exercised before or have been doing it the wrong way. He said the program gives students a common goal and helps them gain confidence as they learn the moves correctly.
PHIT America founder Jim Baugh said childhood inactivity is a growing problem. He said the group plans to reach 100,000 children in South Florida through schools, homeschool families and videos that can be used at home. He said physical activity leads to fewer mental health issues and better academic results.
PHIT America says it will expand to 250 schools this fall, reaching 200,000 kids. Organizers hope more donors will help bring the program to additional schools across Florida and the country.
