HOUGHTON -- Gym class is a great time for students to release energy and forget about other academic pressures.  But it may be the only physical activity some kids get.

With that and the childhood obesity epidemic in mind, Houghton Middle School has increased the gym class schedule for seventh and eighth graders from only nine weeks to all year.

"It’s not just obesity; we're talking about anorexia and it also ties in to things like diabetes and scoliosis,” says Principal Jim Luoma.  “There are multiple health concerns and everything's connected to good portion size and a balanced diet."

Head cook Shelby Turnquist has been instrumental in efforts to improve school nutrition including a new fresh fruit bar at lunch.  Turnquist also worked with Portage Health Wellness Coordinator Joni Rozich to secure a Fuel Up to Play 60 grant for nearly $2,000.

"Middle schoolers are starting to make their own decisions,” says Rozich.  “They're making choices as to what they're going to eat for lunch; they're making decisions to play Play Station or go out and get exercise.  We're trying to educate them on making connections as to how this is going to impact my health."

Olympic gold medalist Sheila Taormina visited the school last week and discussed the importance of healthy decisions to her own success.

"You don't just go and lift weights; it's a package,” says Taormina.  “Every component is really important, from what you eat to how well you rest and how committed you are."

The school hopes to get parents involved by creating and distributing a book of healthy recipes to all students.  They also plan to host a fun family fitness night sometime in May.