Jump Rope has been in existence for hundred of years. Before today’s speed ropes and ropes with weighted handles, children used clothesline or whatever rope-like material they could find just to jump. Jumping Rope is fun and with the Jump Rope For Heart program the ASPIRA EM de Hostos Charter School students had fun, were healthy and active, and made a difference in the lives of others. Jump Rope for Heart was a terrific program that teaches children how to live a healthy, active lifestyle. The event was fun for all and, most importantly, it contributes to saving lives in the fight against heart disease and stroke, our nation’s number one and three killers by raising over $500 for critical research and educational programs.
For years the game of basketball has been a staple of physical education programs across the nation. Now with Hoops For Heart, a joint project of AAHPERD and the AHA, our ASPIRA de Hostos kids play a variation of the game they love while saving lives, learning about heart health, and helping others. Hoops For Heart was a great way to bring students together for a good cause — physical activity and community service. Students were proud to know that they helped to save lives in their own community while having the chance to soak their teachers in the process.
Regular physical activity in childhood and adolescence improves strength and endurance, reduces anxiety and stress, helps control weight, builds healthy bones and muscles, and increases self-esteem. Young people can build healthy bodies and establish healthy lifestyles well into adulthood by including physical activity in their daily lives. The Hoops For Heart and Jump Rope for Heart event helped ASPIRA EM de Hostos Charter students establish this important lifelong habit!
