ABC Funfit

ABC Funfit is a series of five-minute physical fitness segments that were broadcast during the Saturday morning children's programming on the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) network in the early 1980s. The series was designed to encourage children to exercise and lead healthy lifestyles. Hosted by Mary Lou Retton, the 1984 Olympic all-around gymnastics champion, ABC Funfit combined simple exercise routines with positive messages about health and fitness.

Overview

ABC Funfit was introduced in an era when childhood obesity and sedentary lifestyles were becoming a growing concern in the United States. The program aimed to address these issues by making exercise accessible and enjoyable for children. Each segment featured Mary Lou Retton performing various exercises and providing tips on staying active and eating healthily. The exercises were designed to be easy to follow and could be performed in a small space, making them accessible to children watching the program at home.

Format

The format of ABC Funfit was straightforward. Each segment lasted approximately five minutes and was broadcast between Saturday morning cartoons. This scheduling ensured that the program reached its target audience of young children. The exercises included a mix of stretching, aerobics, and strength training, all adapted for a young audience. Mary Lou Retton's enthusiastic and encouraging demeanor helped engage children and motivate them to participate.

Impact

While comprehensive data on the impact of ABC Funfit on children's health and exercise habits is limited, the program was part of a broader movement in the 1980s to promote physical fitness among young people. By incorporating exercise segments into its Saturday morning lineup, ABC contributed to raising awareness about the importance of physical activity for children. The presence of Mary Lou Retton, a highly recognizable and admired athlete, lent credibility to the program and served as an inspiration to many young viewers.

Legacy

Although ABC Funfit was short-lived, its concept of integrating physical fitness into children's television programming has been emulated by other networks and shows. The program is remembered for its innovative approach to children's health and fitness education and for being ahead of its time in addressing the issue of childhood obesity. It laid the groundwork for future programming that seeks to combine entertainment with positive health messages for children.

See Also

• Physical fitness
• Childhood obesity
• Health education
• Mary Lou Retton