NASA Challenges Students To Train Like An Astronaut

Dec. 05, 2011

J.D. Harrington
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-5241
j.d.harrington@nasa.gov

William Jeffs
Johnson Space Center, Houston
281-483-5111
william.p.jeffs@nasa.gov

RELEASE: 11-395

NASA CHALLENGES STUDENTS TO TRAIN LIKE AN ASTRONAUT

WASHINGTON -- An engaging new NASA program brings the excitement of
space exploration to children learning to live a healthy lifestyle.
Inspired by First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! initiative,
NASA's Train Like an Astronaut program aims to increase opportunities
both in and out of school for kids to become more physically and
mentally active.

The program uses the excitement of space exploration and astronaut
training to challenge, inspire and educate kids to set physical
fitness goals and practice fitness and proper nutrition. Kids will
explore mission challenges, learn the science behind nutrition and
learn to train like an astronaut.

The activities used in the Train Like an Astronaut program were
developed in cooperation with NASA scientists and fitness
professionals who work directly with astronauts. Although designed
for 8-12 year olds, the program is for anyone who is curious about
space exploration and what it takes to be an astronaut.

"A part of the human space exploration mission is to inspire our youth
to stay in school and master professions in the sciences and
engineering fields to carry on this important work well into the 21st
century," said Charles Lloyd, NASA's Human Research Program Education
and Outreach Project manager. "We believe this starts with our youth
in elementary school, and hope this ongoing fitness challenge will
assist them with that lifelong endeavor."

The activities align with national education standards and are part of
the physical education and health curriculum in schools throughout
the country. Teachers easily can modify the activities to create an
environment that supports all learners.

No special equipment is required and while adult supervision is
suggested, the activities are routine and involve no heavy-lifting so
children are free to play alone. Participants simply visit the
website, find a favorite exercise and get started.

For more information about the program, visit:
http://go.nasa.gov/spacefit

For more information about the Mrs. Obama's Let's Move! initiative,
visit:
http://www.letsmove.gov/

For more information about other NASA education programs, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/education

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