Sports participation has been a tool of public health for more than a century.

But today, most kids miss out.

The problem disproportionately affects some groups of kids, starting during the grade-school years.

Tom Farrey joins host Melanie Cole to discuss the best ways to get all children involved in physical activities.

Some children find ways to play on their own.

But, the eras of the sandlot and unstructured play -- and of kids making up games and playing with friends for hours on end -- are largely gone.

American sports lack a commitment to inclusion and are shaped by money; leaving many children, families, and communities on the outside looking in.

Tom Farrey discusses the best ways for parents to get ALL children involved in sporting activities.

You see and hear miracle weight loss tactics touted by celebrities, but are they really realistic for YOU?

When it comes to losing weight and getting fit, there are a wide range of behaviors that people can engage in. And, more importantly, there is no “right way” to be successful.

Brian Parr, PhD, discusses the best ways for the "everyday" man or woman to get in shape and lose weight. He also shares some inspiring success stories.

Is your work place conducting a weight loss challenge? Are they trying to be like the biggest loser?

You may think this is a great way to get motivated. But, could it lead to unachievable goals and ultimately de-motivate people?

To lose weight and keep it off, you must keep things in perspective. You did not gain the weight quickly, and you should not plan to lose it quickly.

While the promise of quick weight loss is enticing, dieters who lose weight quickly on a severe diet inevitably regain the weight.

Whether you're losing weight for a competition, or you need to "make weight" for an event, you must consider how you're going to lose that weight AND keep it off. 

Brian Parr, PhD, discusses quick weight loss and its lasting (or rather, non-lasting) effects.

Research tells us that kids benefit mentally and emotionally by playing sports.

But, should there be a limit to the different sports your child takes on at one time?

There are many things to consider when letting your child play multiple sports, including:

Michael F. Bergeron, PhD discusses the best ways to deal with your child playing multiple sports.

While children have traditionally been encouraged to participate in aerobic activities such as swimming and bicycling, a compelling body of evidence indicates that strength training can also be a safe and effective method of exercise for children, provided that appropriate guidelines are followed.

The risks associated with strength training are not greater than other sports and activities in which children regularly participate.

However, the key is to provide qualified supervision, age-specific instruction and a safe training environment. As in many sports, accidents can happen if children do not follow established training guidelines.

Strength training is a specialized method of conditioning that requires qualified supervision, appropriate overload, gradual progression, and adequate recovery between exercise sessions.

Michael F. Bergeron, PhD, discusses childhood weight training and the best ways to keep your child safe while training.

Whether your choice is Led Zeppelin or Dolly Parton, music can really pump up your workout.

Music has the ability to get you moving. Research shows it can play an important part in keeping you motivated and energized during your workout.

John P. Higgins, MD, joins host Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss how your favorite music can help boost your workout.

Some of Melanie's favorite songs are:

Walking on Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves
Feeling Stronger Every Day by Chicago
Jump by Van Halen
Burning Down the House by The Talking Heads
Scarlette Begonias by The Grateful Dead

Some of Dr. John's favorite artists are:

Bruno Mars
Maroon 5
Iggy Azalea
Ed Sheeran
Walk the Moon

Whatever your favorites are, put 'em on, turn 'em up and get moving.

Many of us spend hours upon hours working at desks with computers, causing you to be stiff and tired from sitting all day.

But now, there's a way to combat your work fatigue.

Treadmill desks could be the answer for you.

John P. Higgins, MD, discusses this new way of keeping fit while working at your desk or work station.

When you were in your 30's, you may have lifted weights and used all the equipment in the gym. But, your now in your 50's, you might find some of those exercises more difficult.

Should you even be doing the same exercises you did when you were younger?

Michele Stanten, a walking coach and ACE-certified fitness instructor, discusses your workout and how it might change as you get on in years.

Do you exercise regularly but your mate doesn't share your enthusiasm?

While trying to get them to work out, you could be losing some of your precious exercise time.

So, just how can you get them to enjoy fitness activities the same as you?

MIchele Stanten, a walking coach and ACE-certified fitness instructor, discusses how you can get your mate to exercise, without sacrificing your own time.