To the editor:

This is in response to a letter regarding state concern about the fitness of our children published Jan. 25 where it was implied, more or less, that it would become a task for schools.

Where possible, more parents could walk or bike with their children to and from school rather than driving. Physical education is available in schools. That’s about all schools can do regarding the physical fitness of our children other than offering healthier, lower-fat food and lots of water.

Then again, if alternative modes of transportation such as walking and biking were actively promoted by the media it would help as well. There is an effort to make our fair city more inviting to walking and biking. Bikes are supereasy to park.

Too bad more movie stars, TV heroes and damsels are not cyclists, swimmers, marathon winners and walkers in their weekly movie roles instead of gun-totin’ criminals and cops. “Sex and City” could become “Bikes and the City.” Surely TV doctors, lovers and friends could be portrayed as physical activists going out on bike and/or walking dates and doing their errands. This may require a letter-writing campaign.

Wouldn’t it be great if walking, biking and swimming were the cool thing to do? Lance Armstrong has done his part.

Richard Heckler,

Lawrence