Childhood obesity

Figures from the most recent large-scale survey in the UK shockingly reveal 25 per cent of boys and 33 per cent of girls aged between two and 19 are overweight or obese - and there's little sign the incidence is slowing. The reasons for such high levels reveal children to be eating too much junk food and salt, and not enough fruit and vegetables. The report also points to lack of exercise as an obvious worry.

Health experts are particularly worried about the health risks associated with obesity. These include heart disease, certain cancers, high blood pressure, diabetes, joint problems and psychological difficulties.

For most children, their first experience of exercise will come at school in physical education lessons. This is a key time for schools in particular to positively influence the child to promote continued physical activity as they grow older. A PE teacher acts as a good base for all the children, as they like to feel secure and well supported. There should not be any signs of negativity, like the teacher shouting, being too pushy or not listening, as this could lead to a bad experience and the child walking away all together.

Encouraging children to participate in physical activity can be tough, and motivating them to keep going can be even tougher.

Some of the biggest smiles you will see on a child's face is during school playtimes and birthday parties, so it is important to include activities that can be incorporated into these types of events, such as playing tag, hide-and-seek, and duck-duck-goose. Even the most boring fitness drills can be made interesting with a little imagination.

Children absolutely love it when adults join in with their games, so anyone can be childish for a short time and taking part will gain great results. Everyone thrives on being told they are doing a good job and children are no different.

Christian Fox is a personal trainer and nutritional advisor working at York's Bannatyne's health club.