Teletubbies Shape Up

The Teletubbies' cute and cuddly image has made them a prime target for criticism from groups that claim they promote obesity to children.

One speaker at a recent nutrition conference in Australia claimed the chunky foursome may be ''helping to entrench poor messages that being fat and jolly are attributes to aspire to.''

Not so! Say Tinky, Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po, and they've got an exercise video to prove it.

Targeted toward toddlers, the ''Teletubbies Go! Exercise with the Teletubbies'' video features stretching, calisthenics and freeform dancing (along with plenty of group hugs).

Other basic skills, such as jumping, marching and standing on one leg, are also covered.

In defending its chubby stars, Mark Johnstone of BBC Worldwide, which broadcasts the show, says, ''The series has always been about movement, physical development and exploration.''

Available in stores and on the Internet, the video retails for $12.95 (but can be found as low as $8.99).

This appeared in ACE FitnessMatters, ACE's official magazine.
Click here to order your subscription today.