"Shaq's Big Challenge"

by Lyn Newton | More from this Blogger

11 Jul 2007 12:05 PM

As some of you may have seen, Shaquille O'Neal's new series "Shaq's Big Challenge" was on ABC Television Network last night. The reality show is designed to help get overweight children into good physical shape. Shaq is teaching six obese middle school children how to lead a healthy lifestyle. His team includes a doctor, trainers, nutritional specialist, and motivational professionals.

So you are wondering why this article is in education rather than fitness or weight loss? While "Shaq's Big Challenege" could easily fit into a healthy living or weight loss category, Shaq has decided to do more than just help the six children lose weight. As some of you saw last night, his goal is to help all children across the nation.

Due to many schools not requiring students to take part in daily physical education, Shaq and his team have developed a fitness plan for schools. In last night's show, two of the team members spoke to teachers at Olsen Middle School. The proposed plan asked teachers to carry out fifteen to twenty minutes of exercise in their homeroom class each morning. After several questions, the teachers agreed to give the plan a try. The program is now being carried out by two schools in Florida, Olsen Middle School and Pines Middle School.

Governor Crist awarded Shaquille O'Neal the Florida Commendation Medal for his efforts in creating healthier lifestyles for children.

In addition to Shaq's efforts, Governor Crist has set the following goals for Florida"

Create an appointed council to develop state plans for increasing exercise and healthy living for residents of all ages.

Create a plan that will result in all school age children receiving physical activities every day. This plan will include middle schools and high schools. So far the legislation has only addressed grades kindergarten through fifth grade.

Creation of a Florida health related website.

More Articles Physical Education Homeschooling

Toughen Up PE Requirements

Dancing at Public School

Learn more about Lyn Newton

Lyn is a kindergarten teacher and mommy to a girl and a boy. In her spare time, she enjoys informative and creative writing.

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger