Guinness is well-known for its yearly publications of the current world records. Every year, thousands of people attempt to break their records, but not many of them succeed.
This year, National Geographic Kids partnered up with First Lady Michelle Obama to encourage kids across the United States to do jumping jacks in order to get kids to exercise, ultimately vanquishing the previous title holder. Not only kids have pledged to take the challenge, but schools such as Mountain View’s Huff Elementary School also took the challenge as a whole.
Between 3 p.m. ET Oct. 11, 2011, and 3 p.m. ET Oct. 12, 2011, more than 20,425 people are needed in order for National Geographic to break the world record. Anyone can join one of many events that are being held around the country, including Huff Elementary’s in Mountain View, Calif., on Oct. 12.
Huff Elementary School physical education teacher Jennifer Randazzo says the event believes in Obama’s mission of keeping kids healthy and active.
“This event helps bring awareness to (Obama’s) mission, and people can help by leading healthy lifestyles and supporting their families to do the same,” stated Randazzo. “Our school is involved because our school’s physical education program, Rhythm and Moves Inc., believes in supporting Michelle Obama’s mission.”
The “Lets Jump!” record attempt was inspired by Obama’s initiative in solving the problem of childhood obesity. Obama, also known as “Jumper in Chief,” held an event on the South Lawn of the White House doing jumping jacks with kids. Members of the United States Women’s National Soccer Team held a soccer clinic with younger players on the lawn. Players Nicole Barnhart, Rachel Buehler, Lori Lindsey, Alex Morgan, Kelley O’Hara, and Becky Sauerbrunn taught kids soccer skills while embracing the importance of staying healthy.
More than 110 students will participate in the challenge at Huff Elementary from 11:45 a.m. to noon. If you are interested in joining one of your local events, please visit National Geographic’s website for a full list of nationwide events.