Mackeben students to jump rope for health

The physical education staff at Mackeben Elementary School, Huntley, has announced that all students will be participating in the annual Jump Rope for Heart Program on Monday through Wednesday.

The Jump Rope For Heart Program isn't just good exercise and great fun -- it's educational, too.

Students learn about the lifelong health benefits of physical activity and the importance of a healthy heart. 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, and participation in the Jump Rope for Heart can help establish this important lifelong habit.

According to the American Heart Association, heart and blood vessel diseases are America's No. 1 killer, claiming about 930,000 lives a year -- a life every 34 seconds.

By jumping rope and securing sponsors, the funds raised by students provide lifesaving research and education programs. Special thanks to the physical education staff of Scott Bell, Sharon Herron, Tracy Bucaro, Shawn Nordeen and Kristine Hartman for organizing this event for the students at Mackeben.

Mackeben Elementary is at 800 Academic Drive, Algonquin. For more information, call. Jennifer Zayas, principal at (847) 659-3400.