When was the last time you were a role model to someone you love or someone who is important to you? Do you have a memory of a moment in time that really stands out when your mom or dad did something so positive it left a lasting mark in your life?

This week I want to wrap up my brief health and fitness series regarding children's health with a very important aspect of leading by example with health and fitness. It is very hard to imagine that we can expect our children to embrace a healthy lifestyle if we as parents do not live one ourselves.

If there was ever a time when our kids need great role models, it is now, in our fast-paced and fractured society. Childhood obesity is epidemic; many families are in crisis and healthy lifestyles tend to be lost with our children. Who better to be that role model than you, mom, dad or a family member? Sports and fitness is a very tangible activity that children can understand. Involving your kids in these activities will teach them respect, confidence, self-discipline, and to follow through.

A recent study in the United Kingdom found that children whose parents did little to no physical activity had a 50 percent greater risk of being unfit than children with more physically active parents. Younger children tend to imitate the behaviors of people around them, so imagine the powerful message they are getting when surrounded by a group of healthy family members while being included in their active lifestyles. Research shows that physically active parents have a high percentage of physically active children. In one recent study of boys and girls 12 and under who had highly active parents, the children were four times more likely to have an active lifestyle and participate in a sport as compared with children who had inactive parents. Anyone who has raised a child knows the significance of parental influence. Although there has been limited data on just how much our actions imprint on our children, it is fair to say our kids mirror what we do whether for the good or the bad.

At times, raising children may make you feel like you need superhuman powers, but being a positive role model is simple by just taking care of yourself with health and fitness. Remember, by taking care of your own health and fitness, it becomes rewarding for you, your family and the people around you. I think it is so important that our kids believe in us, their parents and believe that we make great life choices that will help carry them forward in life.

In the United States current statistics show 35 percent of adults live an inactive lifestyle. Current stats also indicate 35 percent of Americans are obese. We are in a health crisis that is totally avoidable and the relationship in the two percentages is not a coincidence. Leading by example with good health and exercise is one place you can help our children and our overall state of health in America.

Judd Jones is a director for the Hagadone Corporation.