Local boxer inspires kids to get fit

As part of a statewide initiative to combat childhood obesity, professional boxer Joey Gilbert will be hosting a free clinic in Carson City on Saturday at Karate for Kids.

"We really want parents and kids to take advantage of this," said Shawn Goodner, owner of the karate studio that has been in Carson City for more than five years. "To get a private session with a boxer is very rare and usually very expensive."

Gilbert will meet with members of the studio at

9 a.m., then host a public session at 10 a.m.

The Obesity Prevention Foundation kicked off the Let's Move Nevada initiative with an activity tour in Reno in June.

The tour included different events to get kids active, including hula-hooping, gardening, biking and boxing.

Spokeswoman Abbi Whitaker said the clinic with Gilbert was the most successful.

"A lot of kids really look up to Joey," she said. "He's a definite star in this area. He's a great picture of fitness and really provides that connection."

Goodner anticipates the same response in Carson City.

"He's definitely going to get the kids excited and teach them a valuable skill," he said. "Boxing is an incredible cardio workout."

Founded in Northern Nevada in 2005, the Obesity Prevention Foundation focuses on direct interventions with educational programs, cooking and nutrition classes, and fitness and wellness demonstrations for schools, classrooms, youth groups, churches and family organizations.

"Let's Move Nevada has got to be the top health priority for everybody in the state right now," said Dr. Kent Sasse, founder of the Obesity Prevention Foundation. "If you really think about the No. 1 health problem for both children and adults, it's weight gain."

Goodner, who has been practicing since 1984, said martial arts is a good avenue for kids to get more active.

"Our program is highly based on physical fitness," he said. "It broadens their view of athletics. It teaches them the discipline to be able to train on their own."

Goodner is eager for the kids to learn from Gilbert, and is excited to meet him as well.

"I have respect for any fighters, especially pros," he said. "Being a professional boxer is one of the toughest careers you could choose."

For more information about Let's Move Nevada and the Obesity Prevention Foundation visit www.obesity

preventionfoundation.org. Visit us on Facebook at Facebook.com/Let'sMove

Nevada.