The facts on childhood obesity are chilling:

•             Nearly one in three children are considered obese. 1
•             Childhood obesity has more than tripled in the last 30 years. 2
•             Obese children are more than twice as likely to die prematurely than thinner youngsters. 3

While there’s no easy answer to the epidemic, the key to winning this battle is engendering support and empowering your community. Whether it’s swapping nutritious dinner recipes with other moms or urging your school to start a veggie garden, get involved. You can start right here – on our blog – by sharing your thoughts, tips and experiences in celebration of our healthy family initiative, CitiFit. Throughout the month of September, we will be writing about getting active with your children and making choices that nourish families’ bodies and spirits.

So, get up, get out and get moving! (Right after you read this post!)

When we here at Citibabes heard that September was designated Childhood Obesity Awareness month by congress (not to mention, First Lady Michelle Obama’s admirable fitness campaign, Let’s Move!), we felt compelled to create our own health initiative – CitiFit – all month long!

The back-to-school season is perfect for starting a more active family routine. Here are some of my favorite healthy spots around New York City to combat a case of the couch potatoes this fall:

Mohr’s Explorers

A literal breath of fresh air to the afterschool program scene, Mohr’s Explorers gets children outdoors with adventure programs featuring hiking, climbing, fishing – even fort building – all in nearby Central Park.

Union Square Green Market

It may be a green market, but there’s a rainbow of fruits and veggies at this NYC institution. Look out for regularly scheduled events from cooking instruction to kitchen scrap collection for an afternoon as healthy for the family as it is for the planet.

Bumble Bee Tennis

With locations near Columbus Circle, SoHo and the LES, Bubble Bee Tennis camps offers instruction for children ages two and up. Indoor courts in some locations mean children can practice rain or shine so their backhand is ready next summer.

Adeline Adeline

This Tribeca “bicycle boutique” showcases a selection of smart, classic bikes for grown-ups and Early Rider bikes for children. Nantucket baskets and Nutcase helmets make this a stylish one-stop-shop for free-wheelin’ tikes on bikes.

Animal Haven

Studies show families with pets are more active, but if a fulltime furry friend isn’t in your family’s cards, stop by this SoHo animal rescue and check out their volunteer opportunities – including dog walking.

Trapeze School New York

Fly through the air with the greatest of ease at this warehouse turned circus featuring classes and workshops for children and adults. While there is no specific age minimum, be aware: if your child doesn’t want to complete the class because they get a case of cold feet, you’re still charged.  Instead, sign up for a birthday party to test the water – or more appropriately, the air!