via unlockedsports.com

Can you imagine having Indianapolis Colts quarterback, Peyton Manning as your gym teacher? Well some lucky kids got to on Monday when he launched a new campaign with Ball State University and the Peyton Manning Children's Hospital at St. Vincent.

The initiative is named after the iconic athlete’s jersey number: “Project 18” and it aims to teach children in grades three through five how to stay active and make healthy choices. Peyton visited the first school in Indiana to adopt the program and gave words of advice to the students about healthy food and good exercise.

To motivate the kids of his state, Peyton said he would visit the school that performed best with the initiative. Obesity is a major health concern facing the children of Indiana as nearly one-third of the children between the ages of 10 and 17 are overweight.

The project also includes a television advertising campaign and a Web site where parents, teachers and kids can learn about health strategies. Marsh Supermarkets, which is also a partner, will be labeling “Project 18” recommended foods in its stores. It will also host school groups looking to learn about nutrition information.

This problem isn’t unique to Indiana—it’s nationwide. Local college kids were at the core of developing “Project 18.” You can follow the lead of these young activists by starting your own health and fitness initiative in your hometown.