[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 21 (Friday, February 17, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E186]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              NATIONAL PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SPORTS WEEK

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                            HON. MARK UDALL

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 16, 2006

  Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, as obesity and the associated 
health risks continue to increase in America's youth, it is important 
to encourage children to participate in physical activity.
  To help spread this message, today I am introducing with Congressman 
Zach Wamp of Tennessee, a resolution urging the declaration of a 
National Physical Education and Sports Week and National Physical 
Fitness and Sports Month.
  This resolution notes the increase in childhood obesity along with 
the negative consequences of extremely overweight and obese people 
including a decrease in the average life span and rising health care 
costs stemming from obesity related illness. It also includes findings 
from the United States Surgeon documenting that regular physical 
activity is associated with improved health-related quality of life. It 
resolves the sense of the House of Representatives regarding ``National 
Physical Education and Sports Week'' and ``National Physical Fitness 
and Sports Month.''
  Research shows that sound physical education programs can help 
students learn healthy habits for life. Through regular exercise and 
information on proper nutrition, children can develop habits for 
maintaining a healthy weight into adulthood. We must encourage our 
children to adopt healthier lifestyles because America's children are 
experiencing obesity in growing numbers, and data continues to 
highlight the link between obesity and diabetes, heart disease and 
other life-threatening medical conditions.
  ``National Physical Education and Sports Week'' and ``National 
Physical Fitness and Sports Month'' would remind citizens of the 
importance of maintaining a consistent exercise program and healthy 
lifestyle.
  I urge the support of this resolution and look forward to its 
consideration.

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