Parks and rec sponsors girls fitness program

The city's parks and recreation department will host a new athletic program later this month geared specifically for young girls in the local community.

Known as Girls on the Run, the national after-school program uses the power of physical activity, life lessons and positive mentoring to prepare girls in third to fifth grade "for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living," said program director Melissa Bixby.

Limited to 16 participants, the group will meet from 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays from Feb. 28 to May 9 at North Elementary School.

"Through interactive activities, including walking, running, playing games and discussing important issues, girls learn how to celebrate being themselves," Bixby said. The curriculum uses proven methods to improve self-esteem, body image and healthy eating attitudes of these youngsters.

Mountain Home is one of 15 locations in southern Idaho adopting the program. Communities in the Treasure Valley already implementing the program include Boise, Meridian, Kuna, Nampa and Caldwell.

At the end of the 10-week season, the girls will reach a level of physical conditioning to run or walk a five-kilometer event to celebrate their accomplishments throughout the season.

However, Bixby emphasized that the Girls on the Run program is more than just running.

"It's about moving," she said. "The girls run, walk, skip, hop and saunter their way through games and activities while learning about themselves, teamwork and the community."

Coaches overseeing the program do more than make these girls great runners, Bixby added. "They are there to encourage the girls to do their best, love who they are and believe in themselves."

Parents may register their girls at the parks and recreation department at 795 South 5th West Street near the city theater complex. Registration fees are based on a sliding scale and start at $40 with scholarships available for qualified students. People may also register online at www.pr.mountain-home.us.

For more information on the program, call Bixby at 388-4687 or via e-mail at info@gotr.org.