Fitness

Nutrition Policy Institute News: Article

New fact sheet for clinicians on physical activity during the perinatal period to support maternal health and fetal development

August 27, 2025
By Jean Aquino, Danielle Lee, Hannah R Thompson
The American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine published a new fact sheet for clinicians on physical activity recommendations during the perinatal period—one year before conception to one year after pregnancy. Adequate aerobic activity and strength training during pregnancy and in the postpartum period…
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Nutrition Policy Institute News: Article

Most state school laws lack accountability and funding for physical education and recess

August 25, 2025
By Brianna Aguayo Villalon, Danielle Lee, Hannah R Thompson
Physical education and recess are crucial for increasing children’s physical activity levels, socioemotional health, and academic performance; however, compliance with existing laws is often low in elementary schools. While studies show that states with strong laws are more likely to implement physical…
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Nutrition Policy Institute News: Article

Hannah Thompson joins KQED Forum to discuss the history and future of school fitness testing

August 18, 2025
By Danielle Lee, Hannah R Thompson
Nutrition Policy Institute researcher Hannah Thompson joined KQED Forum to discuss the current administration's efforts to resume the Presidential Fitness Test in schools. In her interview, Thompson explained how the US dismantled physical education programs in 2002 through the No Child Left Behind Act,…
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Adult with youth in lifejackets in river, holding nets
University of California 4-H Youth Development Program: Page

Outdoor Activities

Outdoor activities in 4-H range from science projects such as rocketry and astronomy, to shooting sports, sports and gardening. Many counties offer outdoor exploration projects to take advantage of learning in the diverse outdoor landscape in California.
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2 youth painting flowerpots
University of California 4-H Youth Development Program: Page

Projects

A 4-H project is a hands-on way for you to find your "spark" - something that you enjoy doing and that interests you.
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University of California 4-H Youth Development Program: Page

About California 4-H

The University of California 4-H Youth Development Program (California 4-H) is open to all youth ages 5 to 18 in every county in California. California 4-H believes in the power of young people. We see that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world around us. California 4-H…
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Girl showing a rabbit to a group of young children.
UCCE Central Sierra: Page

Central Sierra 4-H Youth Development

Each county in the UCCE Central Sierra Multi-County Partnership (MCP) offers a variety of youth development experiences. To find out what is going on in your 4-H community, locate your county below. For information about youth and adult membership opportunities, see Joining 4-H.
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Group of Primary youth sitting next to each other on a bleacher
University of California 4-H Youth Development Program: Page

Primary Projects

Kids aged 5 to 8 can join 4-H as Primary Members, also known as Cloverbuds. Primary Member projects and activities are based on research on positive youth development. Positive youth development means helping you grow by giving you chances to learn, make choices, and build skills.
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University of California 4-H Youth Development Program: Page

Healthy Living

4-H empowers you to be healthy in both body and mind. Having the confidence and skills to lead a healthy lifestyle improves your overall well-being and ability to tackle today's challenges.
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