One in three American children and teens is overweight or obese, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). Because September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, My Gym Children’s Fitness Center of Potomac and My Gym/Bethesda will join forces with Zumba to help fight the epidemic with a “Free Family Fit and Fun Party.” Both locations will host the fitness event on Saturday, Sept. 10 from 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. My Gym Potomac is located at 11325 Seven Locks Road (in the Cabin John Mall) and My Gym Bethesda is in the Westbard Shopping Center in Bethesda.

“My Gym Corporate has teamed up with Zumba for the Fit and Fun Party,” said Mandy Lemar, owner of My Gym Potomac and My Gym/ Bethesda. “Across the country, every My Gym will host a Fun and Fit Party at the same time. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to come out and let their kids experience Zumba Kids/Kids Jr. as well as a fun-filled day of fitness for kids from 3 months to 10 years of age. All families attending this free event will also have the opportunity to take advantage of enrollment specials and discounts on fall classes and birthday parties. There will be Zumba Kids demos, Zumba dance fun and traditional My Gym sports, songs, obstacle courses, tumbling, relays — and raffles. We are hoping families will drop by for an hour or so to enjoy a fitness experience together and to learn about our programs and classes.”

Zumba and My Gym are on a mission to empower children and families to dance away disease, be active and live happy, healthy lives. The partnership comes at a time with the U.S. obesity epidemic continuing to worsen. “Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is a time when the issue of children’s fitness and health takes center stage,” said Cory Bertisch, CEO of My Gym Enterprises. “We are proud to serve the My Gym communities with a comprehensive fitness curriculum designed to introduce children to a healthy lifestyle while developing positive social skills. We are thrilled to welcome both our member families and all newcomers to this event spotlighting the nationally-coordinated colorful and exciting Zumba Kids and Kids Jr demonstrations.”

Alberto Perlman, CEO of Zumba, said, “Our goal is to educate kids and their families while encouraging a healthy lifestyle that incorporates fitness as an enjoyable part of their lives. Zumba not only teaches kids choreography, but also instills teamwork, confidence, self-esteem, memory, creativity, coordination and cultural awareness.”

To learn more about My Gym, go to www.mygym.com or email Potomac@mygym.com for participation details and more information.