Exercise Shorts

What's new in the world of exercise and fitness.

* Bad news about American children. A study of 120,000 students in 28 countries, coordinated by the World Health Organization, revealed that U.S. kids exercised less and eat more than youngsters in many other countries. According to the study, only two-thirds of U.S. children exercised for more than two hours per week, compared to 80 percent in Austria, Germany and the Slovak Republic. American kids also have quite a taste for junk food, ranking among the top three countries where youngsters satisfy their sweet teeth with a daily dose of sweets, chocolate and soft drinks. On the plus side, U.S. kids ranked 24 in terms of smoking.

* ACE certification exams are now recognized for college credit. The American Council on Education reviewed the exams and determined that they are comparable to college-level coursework and made college credit recommendations accordingly. Approximately 1,100 colleges and universities nationwide recognize the American Council on Education's college credit recommendations. Students who successfully pass an ACE certification exam may be able to earn credits toward graduation.

WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich.-Athletic Club Investors LLC in West Bloomfield, a club company that serves upscale family households, has un-veiled plans to open two health and sports clubs in Oakland County.

At press time, the company was expected to break ground on an $8 million health and fitness club at the Centerpoint Business Campus in Pontiac. Scheduled to be open by the end of the year, the 108,000-square-foot facility will offer strength training, cardio equipment, tennis, group exercise, gymnastics and dance.

In addition to the club in Pontaic, Athletic Club Investors intends to open another facility in Rochester Hills. However, the company requires a zoning change before construction can start.

Founded in 1991, Athletic Club Investors operates fitness facilities in Novi and West Bloomfield.

Source: The Detroit News