Get off the couch and get fit for life

 

24 May 2001

 

Fit and healthy is definitely the new black. So teenagerswho want to be trim not grim should log on to getoffthecouch.co.uk, the funkiesthealth and fitness website ever to hit screens.

 

getoffthecouch.co.ukwas created by BUPA to motivate young people to get into the habit of takingregular exercise and eating well. The site is packed with information andadvice on keeping fit and staying healthy. There are interviews with topcelebs, including DJ Trevor Nelson and spicy Mel B; competitions to win Reeboktrainers and CDs from Virgin; a bulletin board; a games zone; an events zoneand info on every sport imaginable.

 

Visitors to the site can sign up for the biggest teenageroad run in the UK, the BUPA Junior Great North Run which takes place on 15September from Gateshead. This achievable three-miler attracts around 5,000youngsters between the ages of 11 and 17. As well as getting fit, runners canalso get sponsored and raise money for a good cause such as the race's officialcharity, Leukaemia Research.

 

BUPA understands that bad habits start early, are hard toget rid of and can cause major health problems later in life. getoffthecouch.co.uk is unique becauseit is aimed specifically at teenagers, it talks their language and is designedto help them understand the importance of being healthy at a young age.

 

Dr Paula Franklin, BUPA's assistant medical director said:"With the growing problems of childhood and adult obesity in Britain it isimportant to inspire young people to exercise regularly and eat healthily.Regular exercise improves both physical and mental health and can even have apositive effect on academic grades. Young people are our future, therefore it'sessential that we look after their health."