The Problem: Inactive Teens. The Solution: the Good Life!

GoodLife Fitness launches its annual FREE Summer Teen Fitness Program

LONDON, ON, June 5, 2012 /CNW/ - We've all heard about the problem. Our teens are stuck on the couch playing video games, texting and watching TV. They're gaining weight, acquiring chronic illnesses and developing bad habits that will last a life time. So, we've identified the problem - what's the solution?

GoodLife Fitness is striving to be a part of the solution for a healthier future for Canadian Teens. That's why, for the third year in a row, GoodLife Fitness is offering a FREE Teen Fitness Program from coast-to-coast this summer for youth between the ages of 12 and 17-years-old, from July 3^rd to August 31^st.

According to the Canada Health Measures Survey 2010 over 26 per cent of children and youth are overweight or obese and 60 per cent of Canadian youth do not get the required daily physical activity for optimum growth and development. Additionally, 93 per cent of children and youth are not meeting Canada's Physical Activity Guidelines (Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology, CSEP).

"The findings of many recent physical activity and obesity studies are undeniable and that is why it's so important that we open our facilities to teens in the summer," said David ("Patch") Patchell-Evans, GoodLife Founder & CEO. "We need to do our part to change the course our children are on and help them to lead active and healthy lives."

"We want to provide all Canadians with the opportunity to live a fit and healthy good life and we know the importance of starting these habits at a young age," continues Patch, who has four teenagers. "The growth of the Teen Fitness Program has been fantastic over the past two summers—as more than 35,000 teens were active and healthy in our clubs last summer."

Online registration for the program opened June 1^st (www.teenfitness.ca) with the clubs opening their doors for teens on July 3^rd. All teens who register for the program will be given a full orientation that outlines: club etiquette, safety guidelines, workout tips, safe and proper use of strength and cardio machines, Group EXercise classes, and appropriate apparel.

"Continuing on the success of last year's program, our goal is that the teens utilize their free membership to learn that fitness can be fun and a great part of their everyday lives all while reaping the benefits of becoming healthier and stronger.  Our program has been set up to ensure that all teens have the proper instruction and tips to ensure their workout experience is safe, fun, and effective," says Kathy MacKinnon, Vice President of Operations with GoodLife and the Operations leader for Teen Fitness.

GoodLife recommends that teens work out three times per week for 60 minutes each time which as CSEP's guidelines for 12-17 year olds outlines, is the healthy amount of weekly vigorous physical activity and strength training.

Check out what these Teen Fitness members have to say about their experience with staying active and healthy in the summer months.

For more information or to register visit: www.teenfitness.ca

Media Opportunity:

• Kathy MacKinnon, Teen Fitness Operations Lead, is available to discuss GoodLife's Teen Fitness program.
• David Patchell-Evans is available for interviews after June 7^th.
• Local Photo opportunities available upon request

GoodLife Fitness

GoodLife Fitness is Canada's largest and most successful fitness company with nearly 300 clubs across Canada. This year GoodLife celebrated 33 years in business, and holds platinum status Canada's 10 Most Admired Corporate Cultures award and Platinum Club member, Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies representing outstanding management and fiscal performance. With 750,000 members from coast to coast 1 in 45 Canadians is a GoodLife Member!  www.goodlifefitness.com

Image with caption: "GoodLife Fitness is offering a FREE Teen Fitness Program from coast-to-coast this summer for youth between the ages of 12 and 17-years-old, July 3rd to August 31st. (CNW Group/GoodLife Fitness)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20120605_C6064_PHOTO_EN_14674.jpg

Media Contact:
Adam Roberts
Public Relations Specialist - GoodLife Fitness
519-661-0910 ext. 424
[email protected]