Urban youth are often the target of advertising in which unhealthy lifestyles are portrayed in a positive light. Fast food, soda, and candy, often sold in and near schools, are cheap and easily accessed. Yet, the negative benefits of these products are rarely confronted. Furthermore, today’s culture of video games and television not only reinforce these unhealthy trends, but they also promote inactivity.
On the other hand, youth are also occupied with music, dance, and sports. These topics are fun and offer wonderful opportunities to get students involved in physical activities. The following programs highlight successful dance and running activities that feature these interests. They demonstrate that adolescents can be persuaded to leave their TV’s and venture onto the dance floor or sports field for healthy physical activity.
