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So president Obama has given his two young daughters a large wooden swing set for them to play on in the grounds of the White House. This is the first piece of equipment of its type to be installed at the White House since Jimmy Carter installed a treehouse for young Amy Carter back in the late 1970s. Some people are speculating as to what might be next. A swimming pool? Or maybe a hot tub?

Malia and Sasha Obama were reported to be overjoyed with their new swing set which includes three swings, a slide a green canvas covered loft, a neat climbing wall and a ships wheel. The lucky girls have even had a nice little picnic table installed with small plates specially engraved with the names of all 44 U.S. presidents.

President Obama and the first lady are clearly keen to encourage their children to be physically active. This comes at a time when many healthcare professionals in the developed nations are issuing warnings regarding what is described an obesity time bomb.

Obesity has become a serious problem. U.S. Behavioural Risk Factor Surveillance data for 2007 has indicated that over 25% of respondents were obese. Some say that this figure could be misleading with as many as 39% of non-hispanic black women falling into the obese category. Clearly something must be done.

President Obama and the first lady are setting a great example by providing their children with outdoor play equipment that will encourage physical activity. But you don’t have to go to great expense to encourage your own youngsters to be more active. It all starts with good role models and setting good examples. So parents need to demonstrate the benefits of being physically fit and active to their youngsters.