Building Healthy Habits: How the MSU Health Care Sports Medicine Mileage Club Keeps Kids Active and Engaged

February 6, 2025

This fall, MSU Health Care partnered with Fitness Finders to bring the MSU Health Care Sports Medicine Mileage Club to 13 mid-Michigan elementary schools. The walk/run program encourages kids to lace up their sneakers and get moving, promoting physical fitness and overall well-being. Together, 2,875 young athletes achieved an impressive milestone—logging over 14,000 miles during the program’s fall session.

The Mileage Club is a fun and engaging way to help children incorporate more physical activity into their daily lives. Through organized walking and running activities, students earn Toe Tokens for reaching milestones, keeping them motivated to stay active. With the support of MSU Health Care Sports Medicine, schools receive resources and encouragement to prioritize the health and fitness of their students. While 52 schools signed up for the MSU Health Care Sports Medicine Mileage Club, 13 schools kicked off the program this fall—setting the pace for what promises to be an exciting year ahead. Many schools traditionally participate in the spring, making the upcoming season an opportunity for even more students to get moving and experience the benefits of the program. 

Physical activity is vital for children’s growth and development. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): 

• Children aged 6-17 should engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily. 
• Regular physical activity improves cardiovascular fitness, strengthens muscles and bones, and helps maintain a healthy weight. 
• Exercise has cognitive benefits too, including improved focus, memory, and academic performance. 

Despite these benefits, many children fall short of the recommended activity levels due to increased screen time and reduced opportunities for physical play. Programs like the Mileage Club help bridge this gap by integrating physical activity into school routines in a fun, rewarding way. 

The success of the fall Mileage Club is a testament to the enthusiasm and commitment of participating schools, teachers, and students. Collectively, the elementary schools logged over 14,000 miles—that’s the equivalent of walking across the United States and back! Beyond the numbers, the program fostered a sense of community, teamwork, and accomplishment among the students. 

MSU Health Care Sports Medicine is proud to support programs like the Mileage Club that prioritize children’s health and encourage lifelong habits of physical activity. By empowering kids to stay active and achieve their goals, we’re helping to build healthier futures for the next generation. 

For more information about the MSU Health Care Sports Medicine Mileage Club and how your school can get involved, contact Scott Sundberg at (800) 789-9255.