From SunHerald.com:

One can always count on a local news story about the obesity epidemic among American children. From shots of chubby tummies to kids and McDonald’s there’s plenty of footage out there for the lazy journalist. And speaking of lazy, parents of overweight children now can feel a little less guilty about overindulging their children by getting kids–wait for it–their own exercise equipment. Yes, parents who refuse to work out themselves can get their children exercise equipment that can grow dust right alongside the adult versions!

Isn’t this rise in children’s fitness a bit of a Band-Aid for the problem? Shouldn’t more money be spent in traditional children’s toys: bikes, balls, bats, soccer gear, etc? Encouraging children to get out and have fun is a much better way than starting them early on the exercise machines meant for medevil torture chambers.  

 Of course, we’d love to hear your thoughts…

This season’s line of kids’ fitness products, targeted at children as young as 4, includes the Kid’s First Treadmill (suggested retail price $109.99) intended to develop cardio health and overall strength; Kid’s First Exercise Bike ($79.95), which comes with an electronic fitness monitor; Kid’s First Air Walker ($79.95), which mimics adult elliptical machines; and a 1/2- or 1-pound dumbbell set ($8.95), that helps build strength and muscle coordination.

  For the rest of this article, please click here.