Typically offered in smaller, rural, remote, and disadvantaged communities where the risk of developing heart disease is higher, Jump Rope for Heart Outreach teaches students the importance of keeping their hearts healthy through physical activity participation, healthy eating and living smoke-free.

Cumnock Public School relieving principal Amanda Schulz said the school was buzzing with excitement in anticipation of Thursday’s workshop.

“Childhood is a critical window in which to shape healthy behaviours,” she said.

“It is during these early influential years that we can make a real impact on children’s immediate and long-term health.”

Heart Foundation NSW CEO Kerry Doyle said the program was being taken to schools across NSW that may not have otherwise had the opportunity to participate thanks to funds from donations to the Heart Foundation.

“The generosity of altruistic donors never fails to move me, and the reality is without this support we wouldn’t be able to take this program to the schools where it’s needed most,” she said.

“This program helps children and young people skip their way to fitness and health, helping us to fight against Australia’s number one killer - heart disease.”

For more information on the Heart Foundation’s Jump Rope for Heart Outreach program visit www.heartfoundation.org.au/JRFHOutreach. 

bryson.ferreira@fairfaxmedia.com.au