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THE CITY OF BALLWIN’S HEALTH AND FITNESS NEWSLETTER
September
In This Issue:
Video Games: If You Can’t Beat ‘Em, Join ‘Em
Pointe Activity Center
Upcoming Programs
Recipe: Breakfast Apple Sandwich
Video Games: If You Can’t Beat ‘Em, Join ‘Em
For the past twenty years or so, video gaming has evolved into a monster industry. Technology has taken us to the point where we can play games against people in other countries via the internet. The graphics on games are, well, really cool. Today’s games can take people of all ages into another world. Because of all the advances, more and more are using these games as a primary consumer of leisure time. Health and fitness advocates, of course, have blamed video games as one reason our kids are overweight. If this is really one of the culprits, it’s time to make some changes in the attitude toward video games.
First, are video games really a factor as to why kids are overweight? The simple answer is yes. If kids are spending hours each day playing these games, then, of course this would be a factor. The next question would be….Why are kids spending hours each day playing the games? The answer to this is because someone is allowing them. Parents should and do have a say in their kids’ lives, including how much their kids play video games. As usual, it is up to adults to actually be responsible and try and create a healthier atmosphere. The number one solution to keeping kids from gaming too much is for families to spend leisure time together. Finding active ways to spend time is one way to fight potential video game addiction.
Now that we’ve discussed the obvious, it’s time to discuss reality. We all know that spending family time in the backyard, at a park, etc. does more for kids’ health than video games. Reality is that video games are a powerful force to combat. So, instead of simply giving up or creating a daily battle to pull the kids away from the game, there is another way. The one pro-healthy thing of video games today, is they are being designed to actually get the user up and moving. The most promoted of these is the Nintendo Wii. Families can use these types of games together and get some physical activity even when the weather is bad. It is time to let loose of the “video games = unhealthy” attitude. There are ways to make them a beneficial part of our lives.
There will never be a lack of discussion on why our kids, in general, are becoming less healthy. The fact is it is not just our kids. With all we know about physical activity and why we should do it, there are plenty that still don’t. It is not as simple as picking out a few reasons why. Video games, television, the internet, and so on are not the real problems. The biggest problem is lack of active leisure time families spend together. Whether it’s outside for a game of kickball or inside playing Wii Sports, there are always ways to be active as a family.
Pointe Activity Center
The Pointe at Ballwin Commons has added the Pointe Activity Center (PAC). The PAC features active gaming as a way for kids to get moving. It includes a Dance, Dance Revolution station, a Nintendo Wii station, a climbing wall and Sportwall game. The PAC can be used by anyone with a membership or paid admission to the Pointe.
Pointe Activity Center
Hours: Mon-Fri, 3:30pm-7:30pm
Sat, 11am-7pm
Sun, 12pm-5pm
The PAC is also available for rentals and is included with any Pointe Birthday Party Package.
Upcoming Programs
Basic Training
6-week, 24-class bootcamp.
Days: Mondays-Thursdays
Dates: Sep 20– Oct 28
Time: 6am– 7am
Fee: VIP-$129, Reg-$149
Hot Mamas In Training
New moms and veterans are welcome! If you have a stroller, this is the class for you.
Days: Fridays
Dates: Sep 24– Oct 29
Time: 9:30am-10:30am
Fee: VIP-$40, Reg-$48
Family Fun Night
The Pointe at Ballwin Commons will host this night filled with contests and games to challenge your family’s fitness and teamwork. All families will receive recreation program discount and other goodies.
Date: Friday, Sep 10
Time: 6pm-9pm
Fee: $5/Family
3rd Annual Kids Triathlon
Ages 5-8: 25yd swim, 1m bike, 1/2m run
Ages 9-12: 75yd swim, 2m bike, 1m run
Date: Sunday, September 26
Fee: $20
Pre-registration is required for all programs. Sign up online at www.ballwin.mo.us.
Recipe Breakfast Apple Sandwich
Ingredients
1 medium Gala or Fuji apple
1 veggie sausage patty
1/2 slice reduced fat provolone cheese
Cinnamon
Cut the Apple: The bread for the sandwich is actually going to be the apple. Set the apple on a cutting board so that the core is vertical. Starting at one side of the apple, slice a very thin slice and set aside. The next slice will be the top of your sandwich. The next slice after that will be the bottom of your sandwich. The slices should be thin, but sturdy. Cut the remaining apple in your favorite style for snacking.
Prepare the Sausage: Remove one sausage patty from its original packaging and wrap in a paper towel. Microwave for about 25 seconds. Unwrap the patty and flip over. Fold the sliced cheese into tiny pieces and add these to the top of the patty. Microwave uncovered for 30 seconds. You should have a nice cheesy sausage.
Assemble the Sandwich: Place the cheesy sausage on your bottom apple slice and cap it off with the top apple slice. Arrange the other apple slices around the plate and sprinkle with cinnamon. Enjoy your tasty, nutritious, and low-calorie breakfast.
Calories– 180, Fat– 5g, Pro-12, Carb-21
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