There is an exciting program that has launched in Peoria, called Exergaming for Health. The 10-week program is for overweight/obese children and takes a unique approach to give kids the tools needed for healthy lifestyle changes.  It takes the attraction kids have for videogame technology to engage them in physical activity and pairs this with educational offerings about nutrition, lifestyle behaviors, family dynamics, self-esteem and body image. The gitm Foundation has partnered with this exciting program, and coordinates and instructs the psycho-social classes of the program-we call it gift n' fit.  As a component of the Exergaming for Health Program, gift n' fit

• Fosters good health with positive body awareness
• Builds hope in relationships
• Promotes children to believe in themselves
• Encourages health in each of the 4 lifestyle areas: Physical, Mental, Emotional and Spiritual

Participants in a recent 10-week program lost an average of 4.4 pounds.  The greatest losses came to those who completed the program in its entirety and participated in all classes.  These children lost an average of 6.8 pounds.

Classes are held on Tuesday nights for 10-weeks at the RiverPlex.  Each weekly class will include one hour of exergaming and one hour of class time.  Participants will be divided by age (8-12 and 13-17) to work alongside their peers.  In order for families to gain the most from the program, a parent or guardian is asked to attend sessions with the child.  Children are weighed privately each week, and are asked to fill out questionnaires at the beginning and end of the program.  Results will only be shared with your family.

WHEN: The Spring 10-week session began Tuesday, April 13th, 2010.  The Fall session will begin Tuesday, August 31st, 2010.   Contact us or call us at 309 l 339 l 9453 for future session schedule information, or if you have questions or would like to visit the program during the current session to see what it is all about.

WHERE: RiverPlex

COST: $100.00- cost includes 10 weekly facilitated EXERGAMING sessions and lifestlye classes, plus a 10-week family pass to the RiverPlex.

To enroll, click on the PRINT icon in the upper right corner of this page and complete the information below:

Checks are made out to Exergaming for Health. Send the check and this page to

the RiverPlex, attention Kim Herlehy
600 NE Water St / Peoria, IL 61603

Participant Name_______________________________________________________ Participant Date of Birth______________________ Parent/Guardian Name___________________________________________________ Address_________________________________________  City__________________ Zip Code_______ Phone number______________ e-mail________________________ You are applying for the session starting Tuesday, August 31st

Exergaming for Health is spearheaded by pediatrician Dr. Amy Christison, and is a coordinated effort between the Peoria Park District, the RiverPlex, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria (UICOMP), OSF Saint Francis Medical Center and The gitm Foundation.