GOVERNOR’S COUNCIL ON PHYSICAL FITNESS PRESENTS STATE PLAN OF ACTION
December 14, 2007
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GOVERNOR'S PRESS OFFICE
(850) 488-5394
TALLAHASSEE— Governor Charlie Crist today accepted the recommendations and state plan of action from the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness. During the past six months, the council has worked to develop and finalize its recommendations regarding the 19 objectives identified in Executive Order 07-52.
“I am very pleased by the recommendations put forth by the council,” Governor Crist said. “This plan of action is the first among many exciting steps that will take place as a result of their efforts. I appreciate each member’s hard work represented in this report. I look forward to working with the council, legislators, community leaders and businesses to ensure Florida becomes a healthier state for our children."
Governor Crist charged the council with the task of developing a state plan of action to increase Floridians’ level of physical fitness through regular exercise and sound nutrition practices. The goal is to reduce the number of Floridians who suffer from chronic diseases resulting from obesity within the next 10 years.
The council heard testimony from programs with successful outcomes related to education, health, nutrition, and active lifestyles. Program representatives were from faith-based organizations, schools, hospitals, government agencies and non-profit groups, as well as concerned Floridians. Based on the testimony, the council developed 39 recommendations that addressed issues such as school lunches, physical education in schools, and improving Floridians’ ability to walk and bike to work and school.
The recommendations focus on increasing awareness about the need for physical exercise and sound eating practices by giving communities and schools the tools they need to help Floridians succeed. These tools include designating model healthy schools as “Health Lifestyle Schools,” establishing a rewards program for students who increase their fitness level and designating a “Healthy Floridians Month.”
“I encourage Floridians to get involved and implement the recommendations at the local level,” Governor Crist said. “Involvement at the community level is one way these recommendations can become a reality. I am confident that Floridians are ready and willing to learn about these important changes.”
Governor Crist appointed the 21-member council in May 2007. Members on the council include elementary, secondary, and public university representatives, health care practitioners, advocates for senior citizens and person with special needs, physical fitness and sports organizations, parks and recreation experts, business community and corporate interests, state and local government representatives and private citizens.
The state plan of action will be available on the Healthy Floridians Web site. For more information regarding the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, please visit www.healthyfloridians.org.
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