First-time exerciser Ray Mineo has developed a new interest in fitness after getting onto an indoor rowing machine.

The nine-year-old from Longridge Elementary School in New York told the Democrat and Chronicle that he is committed to living a healthy lifestyle after being introduced to fitness equipment as part of the Active Kids programme.

He said: "I thought this was going to be pretty hard, especially because I've never really worked out a lot.

"I'm getting better with the help of my coaches and I'm really happy with my body. I like riding the (stationary) bike; getting into exercise will get us going towards being healthy for the rest of our lives."

The UK's National Children's Bureau recently urged schools to provide pupils with more opportunities to take control of their fitness, such as by investing in fitness equipment like indoor rowers.