Hyde Grove Elementary Fights the Couch in Full Force

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- We all know it's a serious issue. But you can't force a child to exercise, especially if he's already overweight.

So how do you inspire kids to get healthier?

Have fun!

Just watch the video from Hyde Grove Elementary on Jacksonville's Westside and you'll see the proof the idea works.

The kids are dancing, perspiring, and smiling!

Teacher Craig Nelson is on stage leading the "Chicken Dance" and the "Hokey Pokey."

Principal Nancy Carter says she and her staff are concerned about childhood obesity and that's why they've joined "Fight the Couch."

It's our new contest to encourage kids to put down the video games and forget about potato chips.

Starting today, April 6th, teams can log their activity minutes on their special team page on firstcoastnews.com.

The four classes with the most activity minutes win big prizes.

You can still register your class on firstcoastnews.com

"Fight the Couch" begins a long-term station commitment, "Kick it Up First Coast," to tackle the obesity problem.

Jeannie Blaylock (jblaylock@firstcoastnews.com) is happy to answer any questions you have. The project is open to all students and it's free.

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