Outdoor Gym Takes Weight Off Mums' Minds

Newcastle Herald

Friday November 9, 2007

By JACQUI JONES

HUNTER mums are wasting no time setting good examples for their children about healthy living.

They are part of a growing trend in the region where infants get active with their parents.

Rise Fitness trainer Mell Poulton runs classes where babies and prams replace dumbbells and treadmills and children watch as parents exercise in small groups.

The business started in Newcastle and has expanded into Lake Macquarie and Maitland.

The positive reaction has prompted Mrs Poulton to organise a four-kilometre charity walk on Sunday along Newcastle Foreshore.

Money raised will help Kidsafe Hunter set up a centre in Newcastle to teach safe parenting skills and educate children about injury prevention.

Tricia Hogbin, of Waratah, is taking part in the charity walk. She and daughter Olivia Lloyd, six months, attend a regular fitness class at Lambton Park.

Karen Piper, of Lambton, is another participant. She said it was great to exercise with son Marcus, seven months.

"It's hard to get to the gym, but this brings the gym to you," she said.

CHARITY WALK

When: Sunday

What: 4km walk/run, Newcastle Foreshore

Time: 8am to 9.15am check-in, 9.30am start

Where: Camp Shortland, next to Nobbys Beach

Registration: risefitness.net.au or phone Mell on 0424 644 236

© 2007 Newcastle Herald

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