NFL and American Heart Association Award $1,000 Grants to Three Schools for Student Fitness

Three schools from Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania have been awarded $1,000 grants through the NFL PLAY 60 Exercise Blitz, an initiative designed to promote student physical activity and wellness. Douglas Road Elementary, LaMuth Middle School, and Cook-Wissahickon School were selected randomly after participating in a five-day physical activity video series featuring NFL players.

The program, a joint effort between the National Football League and the American Heart Association, aims to inspire children to engage in at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity. By providing resources like exercise videos and a mobile app featuring NFL team avatars, the initiative seeks to combat sedentary behavior and establish healthy lifestyle habits among youth.

Physical activity is crucial for children's overall mental and physical development. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines emphasize the importance of varied cardio and strength exercises that target different body parts. The NFL PLAY 60 program addresses this recommendation by offering diverse, engaging workout options.

Since 2006, the NFL and American Heart Association have collaborated to create innovative approaches to youth fitness. Their partnership underscores the critical role of physical activity in children's immediate and long-term health, potentially reducing future risks of chronic diseases and promoting lifelong wellness.