RugbyWA and the Emirates Western Force will continue to help tackle childhood obesity with their presence at the 2011 World Sports Expo between January 19-23 at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The Expo aims to reduce the instances of childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes by encouraging kids and adults to live an active lifestyle and show them how to have fun with fitness. This initiative is also designed to engage health professionals, local sporting communities and people of all ages, with an emphasis on parents and children, to celebrate the range of sporting opportunities available and the positive effects of living a healthy and active lifestyle.

RugbyWA is already tackling childhood obesity and encouraging school children to get active through our MBF Force Express programme which has visited more than 10,000 kids since its launch in February this year.

Childhood obesity is a major concern in Australia today with predictions that by 2020, 65% of children in Australia will be overweight or obese which can lead to further health conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

Emirates Western Force star Cameron Shepherd was on hand at the Expo launch on Tuesday morning alongside athletes from a variety of sports including basketball, netball, Aussie rules and cricket in a show of solidarity from the major codes. Shepherd said he fully backed any efforts to promote healthy lifestyles by encouraging kids and adults off the couch.

“It’s pretty alarming to hear that Australia has one of the highest rates of childhood obesity and diabetes in the world. Speaking with the other athletes, it is fairly shocking considering we have such a vast amount of sports on offer and one of the best climates in the world to get outside and get active,” Shepherd said.

“As a kid I was constantly pushed out the door and encouraged to get active so it’s a shame it’s gotten to this point,”

“This expo will give parents and kids the opportunity to see what sports are out there and I certainly hope we can get more kids into the great sport of Rugby Union!” he said.

To find out more about the MBF Force Express and how to get it to your school please click here

For information about 2011 World Sports Expo, please visit: http://www.yellowempire.com.au/contents/events.htm?id=5

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