TheGrio's 100: C.J. Senter, child fitness instructor

C.J. Senter has six-pack abs, loves to exercise and has his own brand under which he produces a line of fitness DVDs. This sounds like your typical fitness instructor, except for one thing. Senter is only 10 years old.

WATCH WXIA-TV’s REPORT ON C.J. SENTER HERE:

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Known as “the Workout Kid,” Senter grew up playing football and playing outside with his friends in Atlanta. He was an encouraging leader on his football team and figured that he could motivate kids all across America to exercise. Today, what was a pastime for him has become a full-fledged business. Through his series of DVDs featuring 40-minute workout sessions, Senter has become a motivation for kids everywhere.

C.J. Senter is making history … as one of the youngest fitness gurus in the U.S. In a world where video games have replaced traditional physical activities for children, Senter is leading the charge to get children to be more active, and he encourages kids to play outside for at least one hour a day.

What’s next for C.J.?

Senter continues to teach children the importance of staying active through his workout DVD series and by teaching fitness classes to older children. He aspires to one day become a professional football player.

In his own words …

“I love working out so much because I get to stay fit and healthy,” Senter told MSNBC,, “and live a long healthy life.”

A little-known fact kids receiving enough physical exercise

Research has shown that contrary to popular belief, children’s media consumption does not necessarily displace vigorous physical activities. However, another factor related to media consumption that may contribute to the rising obesity rates in children is their exposure to heavy advertising and marketing of unhealthy foods. Children are exposed to around 40,000 ads per year, with the majority of the ads about candy, soda and fast food, according to a 2004 Kasier Family Foundation report.

For more information, click here GRIO’S Q & A WITH C.J. SENTER

Q: What’s next in this chapter of your life?

A: The next chapter of my life will include a Workout Kid television series to help kids get active and stay healthy.

Q: What’s a fact about you that many people don’t know?

A: I really enjoy dancing.

Q: What’s your favorite quote?

A: “It’s not how good you are, it’s how good you want to be.”

Q: Where do you get your inspiration from?

A: My inspiration comes from my faith in God. He gives me the strength and guidance I need to help others.

Q: Who are/were your mentors?

A: My mentor is my dad. He always tells me to do my best and to work hard to achieve my goals.

Q: What advice would you give to anyone who wants to achieve their dreams?

A: The advice I would give to anyone craving to achieve their dreams is to always work hard, stay focused, and to never give up.