Scouts are Activated!

The Boys and Girls Scouts of America are some of the nation's largest and most prominent values-based youth development organizations. Young people need to be well, and a commitment to physical wellness has been reflected in Scouting's outdoor programs such as hiking, camping, swimming, climbing, and conservation. First aid, lifesaving, and safety programs are also synonymous with these programs.

There are various programs focusing on health and fitness that the Boys and Girls Scouts of America are participating in today, and some of the most popular activities they take part in revolve around staying fit and active. Girl Scouts have about 7 lessons they use to promote healthy lifestyles, these include:
• Fit's Inn: A Fun Getaway for Girls—the girls "check in" for a healthy getaway full of daily activities that inspire and challenge them to be active. They try sports and dance, and even learn yoga
• National Girls and Women in Sports Day Celebration: On February 4, 2009 and throughout the month, thousands of sports educators, coaches, athletic directors, recreation directors, etc…show their support for all the women in sports
• Girl Scouts shape Up: Created to encourage healthy nutrition and regular physical activity and encourages girls to live well and develop healthy habits
• See the USA -Take a Walk Today: Local American Volkssport Association (AVA) clubs help Girl Scout councils and troops organize events on established trails for council-wide or family outings. Girl Scouts can walk for fun, friendship, and exercise
• GirlSport: This program develops lifelong health and fitness habits and helps increase girls participation in sports nationally
• GAME FACE: What Does a Female Athlete Look Like?—Girls are inspired to get involved in physical activity and this project that celebrates sports and activity in the lives of girls and women
• Strong Bones, Strong Girls: Learn how to preserve healthy bones and bodies through the Strong
Bones, Strong Girls video that was produced with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Boy Scouts of America participate in many programs similar to the Girls Scouts, but also have 7 core requirements for their Physical Fitness Award. They are used to determine an individual's progress over time, not to create an arbitrary minimum level of activity. The 7 requirements are:
1. Posture
2. Accuracy
3. Strength
4. Agility
5. Speed
6. Balance
7. Endurance
There is an infinite amount of educational programs and badges that can be awarded and earned by the Boys and Girl Scouts of America. For more information, please visit: Scouting.org & GirlScouts.org