Angie Fry, an RN from Susquehanna Health is taking Brianna Gardner's blood pressure at Myers Elementary School during their fitness challenge event Feb. 20.

MUNCY – To celebrate heart healthy month, students and families at Myers Elementary School came together for several activities to raise awareness for their physical well being.

Cindy Campbell, director of Physical Education at the school, scheduled a series of events for the Lycoming County Fitness Challenge. Starting on January 23, a dance class was held that included Zumba, Ballroom and even Karate. The following week the elementary students were given free admission to Trout Pond Roller Skating Rink. Other planned activities consisted of cross country skiing, outdoor games after school, and kids could bring their own sleds too.

Campbell said the activities were well attended. Many of the younger grades came also to participate in Hoops for Heart, jumping rope and doing gymnastics. The all purpose room was open on February 13th and 20th during early evenings for a “plethora of fitness activities.” Campbell said the goal is to work towards family fitness.

Students also raised money for the American Heart Association by ‘Jumping Rope for Heart’ a program sent out this year, and for the first five dollars raised, a student received Quacky a ‘Heart Hero Duck’ and lanyard. “This is a motivation for them,” said Theresa Artley, a student aid who was helping with the fundraiser at the school.

On Monday, March 17, the Muncy School District will be receiving a gold award from the American Heart Association for its recognition at a “Fit-Friendly Worksite.”

Another asset is the school district’s one mile walking routes that were established to promote good health.

There are three routes indoors at the Muncy Junior/Senior High School that loop through the hallways, past the auditorium and back towards the office. 4.25 laps equal one mile. Another route uses stairs and 7.5 laps of that route equal one mile. There is also a one mile (3 laps) route outside that goes around the school’s complex.

The elementary school also has a designated outside route that starts at the main entrance and loops around the building. 2.25 laps equal one mile. These walking routes are open to the Muncy community. Myers also has two other indoor routes that start at the main hallway. Students know about them and are using them according to Campbell.