The Active 4 Life event is geared towards young kids and their families to ingrain a sense of healthy living and an active lifestyle. (Geoff Hackett)

By Spencer Sterritt

feeling good

Active life expo helping kids get on healthy path

May 24, 2019 | 7:32 AM

NANAIMO — A sports and healthy living expo hopes to help keep obesity rates low and kids healthy as ever.

The fourth annual Active for Life expo goes on May 25 at Maffeo Sutton Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Event organizer Geoff Hackett said with so many sports organizations in Nanaimo, it can sometimes be difficult for parents to find what would be best for their children.

“I think for parents and their younger children, it’s a great day for them to go explore what’s around town, develop awareness of what’s there and start those relationships,” he said.

fire bans

Campfires still permitted across Vancouver Island over May long weekend

59m ago

lucky streak continues

Nanoose Bay woman claims $500k lotto win

3h ago

Increased enforcement

Increased police presence on roads with driving season upon us

7h ago

Hackett said with obesity rates rising, sugary drinks available everywhere and new avenues to unhealthy lifestyles appearing every day, it’s important to start children on a healthy path as early as possible.

“Whether the person is going to play a high-level sport or not, just having the confidence in themselves to be able to move properly and engage with something outside is a very vital part of well-being.”

Mainstays of the event include the City of Nanaimo’s Parks and Rec department, Wildplay, Airhouse and Vancouver Island University.

Hackett said though the expo is focused on younger children and their parents, there will be information for teens and even seniors looking to stay in shape.

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @nanaimonewsnow