History of GO FAR

We have arrived at the 21st Century and although there is tremendous opportunity for children in the US, one issue looms and threatens the health and well-being of our children - Childhood obesity. It is a growing problem (no pun intended).

According the CDC (Center for Disease Control) 13.9% of children age 2-5 are overweight or obese, 18.8% of children age 6-11 are overweight or obese and 17.4% of young adults age 12-19 are overweight or obese. One of the best methods to screen for obesity or being overweight is by calculating BMI (Body Mass Index).

In 2003, Robin Lindsay, Physician Assistant (PA), in conjunction with a University graduate student, developed the GO FAR (Go Out For A Run) running program/fitness curriculum. As a PA, Robin was working in a practice and evaluating young adults who were overweight and already showing early signs and symptoms of chronic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, joint problems and depression.

“I felt compelled to try and help even if it was in just a small way” says Lindsay.

Lindsay has run several marathons and ½ marathons and understands what it is like to be self-disciplined, set goals and eat healthy.

Then it occurred to Lindsay...maybe she could use her passion for running to teach children about exercise and healthy eating. She knew that reaching children at an earlier age was the key to developing and maintaining good habits throughout childhood and into adulthood. “Also, you don’t have to be a super star athlete to run…all that is needed is a good pair of running shoes”

The GO FAR program was initially started in one NC school with 16 children and now has grown to reach over 800 children annually.  GO FAR has programs in elementary and middle schools, YWCA, a few churches and several Parks and Recreation facilities.  GO FAR has been initiated in NC, VA and SC.

From a health standpoint, obesity may increase the tendency to develop chronic diseases at an earlier age, suffering from these diseases longer, and possibly a shortened life span. The following are chronic diseases and illnesses associated with obesity:

• Diabetes
• High Blood pressure
  
• Heart disease
• Osteoarthritis
  
• Stroke
• High cholesterol
  
• Various cancers

Lindsay is hoping to expand GO FAR throughout North Carolina and United States with the help of physical education teachers and other volunteers. The GO FAR program is laid out in daily lesson plans that are easy for leaders and children to follow.