Why do some states have more obese people that others?

Some of the regional differences in the obesity rate may relate to popular foods that are frequently eaten by people in different areas like corn dogs and frito pie here in Texas. But, activity also plays a part in the obesity rate. A recent study by the Center for Disease Control showed that obesity in different areas correlates with the activity level.

These states recorded the least physical activity: Alabama, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Tennessee.

States that reported the highest levels of physical activity were California, Colorado, Hawaii, Minnesota, Oregon, Vermont and Washington.

Four of the five least-active counties in the USA are in Kentucky, report the researchers, and four of the five most active are in Colorado — including Boulder County, known for its outdoor sports culture and bike-friendly communities.

Source:USA Today 2/17/11

Does Weight Lifting Stunt Your Growth?

Weight lifting is a competitive sport where the participant lifts a maximum amount of weight. Strength training uses resistance to increase one's ability to exert or resist force.

Weight lifting or power lifting should be delayed to the time of physical maturity but strength training (in moderation) can be done with positive effects at any age. The journal, The Physician and Sportsmedicine (2003) states: "Training may actually be an effective stimulus for growth and bone mineralization in children".