Phil Lawler:
Dr. Lisa's Interview

Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, April 30, 2005
Show 212

"Kids with downsized activity and super sized food risk have a shorter lifespan than their parents. How does your program counteract this?" asks Dr. Lisa. "Kids need to be more active. Almost 35 percent of kids are overweight and on their way to heart disease. We focus on cardiovascular health," says Phil Lawler, founder of PE4life, a physical education program that targets heart health and individual, rather than team workouts. "What's the biggest value that kids get out of this program?" asks Dr. Lisa. "We see positive self image when kids feel good about themselves physically, but the program is good for not just health, but also academics. Physical activity causes oxidation and hydration to the brain. As far back as Aristotle's time, there was awareness of the mind-body connection. Schools focus on math and science. We need to focus on health and kids," says Phil.