Participants ages 7 to 17 learn the fundamentals of endurance running, set goals and make new friends, while often joining middle and high school track and cross country teams. YOUth FIT is a partnership with the Red River Road Runners and Shreveport Public Assembly and Recreation.
“I’m honored to have the YOUth FIT program recognized by the largest national association of running organizations, the Road Runners Club of America,” said Dr. Armstrong. “Teaching youth the foundations and strategies for health and fitness through running is an integral part of developing healthy habits well into adulthood.”
Dr. Armstrong, who joined Walden in 2010, is the program director for the School of Health Sciences’ online BS in Health Studies, BS in Public Health and BS in Healthcare Management programs. She is a Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) and former certified National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) coach. In addition to YOUth FIT, she founded Kids on the Run, which hosts one-mile races throughout each school year for elementary school running clubs. Kids on the Run had more than 1,600 students participate from over 40 schools this school year. The two programs are the direct result of her social change mission aimed at decreasing obesity rates and increasing fitness levels in children in northwest Louisiana.
“The Walden community is so proud of the impact Dr. Armstrong is making to help youth adopt healthier lifestyles and instill them with confidence and teamworking skills,” said Dr. Ward Ulmer, president of Walden. “She’s an impressive example of how Walden faculty and staff are dedicated to effecting positive social change in their communities.”
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About Walden University
For nearly 50 years, Walden University has supported working professionals in achieving their academic goals and making a greater impact in their professions and communities. Students from across the U.S. and more than 150 countries are pursuing a certificate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree online at Walden. The university offers more than 80 degree programs with over 350 specializations and concentrations. Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, hlcommission.org. It is also one of more than 35 institutions in 10 countries that make up the Laureate International Universities network. For more information, please visit WaldenU.edu.