For Hub City Times

MARSHFIELD – Marathon County is offering the Active Family Challenge – a nine-week program for families with children living in Marathon County.

The goal of the program is to promote healthy recreation by providing rewards for families who track their weekly hours of activity. Families that achieve a certain number of activity hours by the end of the program are recognized at a free pool party.

According to BMC Public Health, the exercise habits of children are influenced by the example set forth by their parents. Researchers have found positive correlations between the activity levels between parents and their children. Families that engage in physical activities together develop healthy habits that will likely extend into children’s lives long-term.

Throughout the nine-week program, families will track all of their active hours. Activities that count toward the challenge include walking, basketball, biking, swimming, and school sports practices. Families will also earn incentives by reaching milestones throughout the challenge. Participants can earn more hours by attending workshops, or trying a new activity. At the end of the challenge, families will have an opportunity to enjoy a pool party and be entered to win prizes.

“The Active Family Challenge is unique in that families are encouraged to work together toward healthy goals,” said Marathon County Recreation Superintendent Karyn Powers. “This program allows families to focus on making healthy choices over a fixed period of time to earn great rewards and improve their overall fitness and nutrition.”

The Active Family Challenge runs April 15 – June 15. Families may register March 15-April 20 at the Marathon County Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department office or online.

For more information, call 715-261-1559 or visit www.co.marathon.wi.us/Departments/ParksRecreationForestry/Recreation/ActiveFamilyChallenge.aspx.