The German government is stepping up its fight against childhood obesity and western administrations should take notice. With astonishing rates of illness, childhood obesity is putting a strain on the European country’s healthcare system. In response the government is proposing to implement a program in the school system that would make exercise mandatory.

According to news reports, childhood obesity is such a problem in Germany that the country experiences an increase of 6,000 cases of Type 2 diabetes related to obesity each year. Due to poor nutrition and low levels of physical activity more than half the German population is considered to be overweight. The government is launching a program called Fit Instead of Fat, which is expected to reduce obesity rates by 2020. As well as a plan for more exercise for children, the government plans to introduce healthier foods in schools.

In the United States and Canada governments have imposed bans on junk foods in school vending machines and cafeterias but they are missing the mark when it comes to exercise. In many jurisdictions physical education programs are not receiving the funding they need. In many cases schools are not able to provide physical education classes. While providing children with the proper nutrition they need is essential, it is only half of the solution. Exercise is vital for improving the health of our young people and reducing obesity.