In Rockingham County, Virginia, a new initiative called “Rockingham Moves” is set to inspire students to embrace physical activity and wellness. This 30-day pilot program, spearheaded by County Supervisor Joel Hensley and School Board member Hilary Irons, focuses on instilling healthy habits in young people by encouraging daily exercise outside of school.
Joel Hensley, who represents District 5 on the Rockingham County Board of Supervisors, emphasized the importance of introducing fitness at a young age. He believes that encouraging consistent physical activity can foster a more health-conscious mindset, paving the way for a positive lifestyle.
“The idea has been on my mind for some time, especially after noticing that kids today tend to be less active than before,” Hensley explained. He cites a recent study stating that children are not meeting their recommended daily activity levels, which sparked his desire to create a change.
Hensley views his role on the board as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the community. His goal with “Rockingham Moves” is to encourage students to adopt a broader perspective on fitness. Rather than viewing it as a chore or a checklist, he aims to help kids see physical activity as an enjoyable journey that continues throughout their lives.
What distinguishes this program from others is its emphasis on physical activity beyond the traditional classroom and gym settings. Hensley pointed out that many students turn to screens as soon as they get home instead of staying active. “We want to empower kids to create their own healthy habits rather than relying solely on external prompts,” he said.
Participation in the program is entirely voluntary. By focusing on self-directed wellness from an early age, Hensley hopes that students will develop lasting fitness habits that will benefit them as they grow into adulthood. “Establishing these routines can lead to a healthier life down the road,” he mentioned, alluding to the potential benefits for both physical and mental well-being.
“Rockingham Moves” seeks to engage the community and may potentially expand to include activities like a “Mud Run” and partnerships with local nonprofit organizations. Hensley is optimistic about the program’s future and its capacity to evolve into various formats, including sleep and meditation components alongside physical activities.
Drawing from his own experiences in sports during his youth, Hensley encourages children to engage in fitness without the pressure of competition. “Even if you don’t make the basketball or football team, there are countless ways to be active and create a health-focused foundation for your life,” he shared.
The pilot program is scheduled to launch in the first week of April, with Rockingham County Public Schools’ P.E. teachers distributing materials to students. The initiative will offer three levels of activity participants can choose from, allowing them to set their own fitness goals:
- Movement Starter – 20 minutes of activity per day
- Habit Builder – 40 minutes per day
- Fitness Leader – 60 minutes per day
For further inquiries, you can reach out to the Director of Physical Fitness, Sheldon Rice, at srice@rockingham.k12.va.us or contact Joel Hensley directly.
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### Conclusion
“Rockingham Moves” aims to give students the tools they need to prioritize their health and well-being by fostering a culture of movement within the community. As young participants engage in this initiative, they can develop lifelong habits that not only enhance their physical fitness but also contribute to their overall happiness. By nurturing these habits today, we can pave the way for a healthier, more active tomorrow.
