Third annual kids health fair promotes physical fitness, teaches healthy habits

DES MOINES, IA (03/27/2013)(readMedia)-- Des Moines University students are continuing their fight against childhood obesity by hosting the third annual Mission: Active health fair, a free event for kids, on Saturday, April 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Olsen Medical Education Center, 3200 Grand Avenue.

Mission: Active encourages healthy eating, engages children in fun physical activities and teaches habits they can put into practice at home. Kids can expect to conquer an obstacle course, play new games, learn about healthy lifestyles and win wellness-related prizes. In all, more than 20 different activity stations will be available.

"There is overwhelming evidence that nutrition and physical activity largely determine our health, and while often unnoticed, the effects begin in childhood. We believe that the prescription of the future includes engaging children and their families in making healthy choices the obvious ones," said Christopher Bolander, D.O.'15 student and event co-organizer. "The goal of this health fair is to show kids how easy it is to eat right and be active in a fun way."

All families with grade school-aged children are invited to attend this free event. No registration is required. For more information, visit www.dmu.edu/event/mission-active-kids-health-fair or email missionactive@dmu.edu.

# # #

Des Moines University (DMU) is the only private medical school in Iowa, offering graduate-level, professional degree programs in osteopathic medicine, podiatric medicine, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, biomedical sciences, anatomy, health care administration and public health. Founded in 1898, the institution offers superior academics in a collaborative environment. DMU students' pass rate on national examinations and board certifications is consistently higher than the national average and the rates at similar institutions.