Travis Fitzgerald knows the grim news about childhood obesity: nearly one-third of children ages 10 to 17 are considered overweight in America. But Fitzgerald, head of Salem Gymnastics’ FitKids program, thinks the problem is deeper than eating habits. “I think the problem starts with childhood inactivity,” he says. “So that’s what we try to battle.”

Started in 2009, FitKids is a healthy-living program that utilizes equipment and routines designed for children ages 7 and up. Fifty-minute workouts offered throughout the week are specially tailored to each child.

Fitzgerald, who has a degree in exercise science, aims to make the experience strenuous but fun. “There’s very low pressure in here.”
A fitness test is given on a bi-monthly basis; rewards are issued for improvements and effort. There’s also a nutritional component provided by a partnership with Forsyth Medical Center.

Fitzgerald says the children who participate do so for a myriad of reasons—to improve strength and conditioning, to stay in shape, or to improve self-image. —M.B.
For more information, call 336-765-4668 or go to salemgym.com