13 WTHR - Indianapolis News |Manning joins "Project 18" to keep kids fit

Manning joins "Project 18" to keep kids fit

Anne Marie Tiernon/Eyewitness News

Indianapolis - One of Indy's star athletes is now reaching out to children, too.

Colts quarterback Peyton Manning is supporting an 18-week curriculum aimed at teaching Hoosier kids how to get and stay healthy. Students at the Christel House Academy are the first in the state to participate in "Project 18."

"We are just trying to help these kids live better lives overall," Manning said.

The quarterback is lending his celebrity to the program teaching third through fifth graders about health and wellness.

"Project 18 is just the kind of program that Indiana needs right now," said State Health Commissioner Dr. Judy Monroe.

State health officials say the statistics in Indiana are alarming. Nearly 33 percent of children ages 10-17 are overweight or obese.

"The goal would be to launch this throughout the state," said Jennifer Bott.

"When I was growing up, the computers weren't as popular, the video games weren't as popular, there is more to keep a child inside and not as active," Manning said. "That is what we are fighting against."

Another part of the emphasis is food. Not only portion size or "this is better than that," but also, "what should you be eating?" At Marsh Supermarkets in the fall, there will be Project 18 approved foods, marked with a blue football.

The age group is at a critical time in development when children can discern and identify stumbling blocks to their success.

"Things like chocolate ice cream, chocolate chip cookies. I am big on chocolate," said 11-year-old Alcey Childers.

"I believe it will make a difference in our rates of childhood obesity, ultimately," Dr. Monroe said.

Manning is able to model to the students what's possible when you set goals and have a plan.

"There has to be priorities and having a routine as a young child, it is important to go ahead and set it," he said.

It is hoped students will have fun and make healthy choices become a habit.

"I think this is a really good opportunity to be healthy and just be ourselves," said 10-year-old Ralph Garrett.

The program does have a competitive aspect, too. Students enrolled will log minutes of exercise, similar to reading programs, with Manning visiting the school that wins.

The Project 18 tour will visit fairs and festivals this summer.

Project 18 web site