Did you know that only 6 states in the United States require school children to participate in physical education in every grade, and only 20 percent of school districts require daily recess? At a time when obesity is rising and only 1 out of every 3 children participates in a physical activity on a daily basis, it is more important now than ever that we provide the information and tools our youth need to adopt healthy and active habits that will last a lifetime.

That's why our industry is proud to support the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) and its "Let's Move! Active Schools" initiative, a "comprehensive program that empowers P.E. teachers, classroom teachers, principals, administrators and parents to create active environments that enable students to get moving and reach their full potential."

We all have the power to lead by example and teach the next generation how they can lead healthy lives, including balancing calories consumed from foods and beverages with those we expend through physical activity. So get up, get active and encourage others to do the same.