Fitness program designed for youth

Registered dietitians from Humility of Mary Health Partners and the staff of the D.D. and Velma Davis Family YMCA in Boardman have teamed up to provide a weight management program specifically designed for children 9 to 12 years old.

SlimDown for Kids provides nutrition counseling and fitness training, using the expertise of each organization. Parents or guardians also participate in the program. The goal is a healthy outlook on weight and exercise that will last a lifetime.

The program runs Nov. 1 to Dec. 9. Participants meet from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays for fitness activities and 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays for a nutrition class, which parents also attend.

Fitness classes are taught by YMCA fitness instructors. All classes are held at the D.D. and Velma Davis Family YMCA at 45 McClurg Road, Boardman.

Registration is through the YMCA. YMCA members may register online. All others may call for a registration form at 330-480-5656. Cost is $60 for the six-week, three-day-a-week program.

The first hour of the nutrition class is child-focused and the last half hour is for parents only while the child takes part in more fitness activities.

Registered dietitians certified in childhood and adolescent weight management teach the nutrition classes.