 Chief Petty Officer Yolanda Wood, a yeoman from U.S. Fleet Forces Command, jumps with Larchmont Elementary students during the Guinness Book of World Records Jumping Jack Challenge on Oct. 12, 2011. Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Julie Matyascik
 Petty Officer 2nd Class Monique Merjudio, a yeoman from U.S. Fleet Forces Command, high-fives a Larchmont Elementary students following the Guinness Book of World Records Jumping Jack Challenge on Oct. 12, 2011. Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Julie Matyascik
| | Larchmont's participation was part of a worldwide effort led by National Geographic Kids magazine and first lady Michelle Obama to promote physical fitness by breaking the record for the most people doing jumping jacks in a 24-hour period.
To accomplish the goal, more than 20,000 people around the world had to perform jumping jacks for one minute.
Larchmont's Physical Education Teacher Ali Fortier, learned about the “Get Fit” jumping jack challenge by signing up for Michelle Obama's “Let's Move” program campaign on the Internet and coordinated with the principal for approval.
The school extended an invitation for sailors from USFF to participate and witness the historic event.
“This was a great opportunity for the Navy to show that we care about being fit to fight and that we support events like this that support a healthy lifestyle,” said Petty Officer 1st Class (SW) Warren Martin, a cryptologic technician (collection) .
During the one-minute jumping jacks exercise, the school provided music to make the event fun for the children.
“I really enjoyed doing the jumping jacks,” said Marshall Powell, Larchmont first grader. “It was very fun.”
WWith the challenge complete, the students along with the nation wait to see if they broke the record. And even if they didn't, Larchmont educators say they will continue to support the Get Fit program.
“We fully support Michelle Obama's Get Fit |