There are a staggering number of overweight children in American schools.

In fact, it is such a concern that First Lady Michelle Obama has made it a top priority. She is behind a national effort to make school lunches healthier.

But that is only part of the weight loss equation, exercise is important too.

At New Prairie Middle School in New Carlisle, they are taking steps to help kids get moving. Now, because of their efforts, they are getting help from Martin's Supermarket's "One School at a Time" grant.

The $1,000 grant will go toward exercise equipment to help the kids learn some new moves and some lifelong skills.

One of the teachers that will help put that goal into action is Nicole Bowen. She's a health and phys-ed instructor.

Bowen wants to purchase step platforms to teach the kids and other teachers new moves.

“Not only are the steps going to be used for step aerobics, but also for weight training and building muscle,” said Bowen.

While exercise is important at any age, Bowen says it is crucial to get kids moving especially at that middle school age.

“It’s kind of at that point where if they're going to join a team they're going to join it now. And if not then they really don't have anything else to do. If you start something at this age, then they're more likely to continue it through their life.”

Bowen says the lessons have already started in the classroom, but the addition of step platforms will help give a physical aspect to the learning.