Weigh to go: Promoting weight loss

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jose L. Hernandez
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The Health and Wellness Center is scheduled to offer a new weight loss program called Weigh To Go, starting Dec. 6.

The program is slated to last four weeks at a time with classes offered on Tuesdays.

"Classes will include a nutritional and physical fitness component," said Sandra Horob, 5th Force Support Squadron health promotion dietician. "In these classes, we will talk about ways to enhance nutrition intake and promote weight loss strategies through physical fitness."

She explained the program is not just for people who are overweight but for those who want to learn to eat healthy.

The program will offer an initial weigh in, a point system that awards healthy eating habits, exercise and weight loss, educational material, and a final wrap up meeting with rewards provided to outstanding participants.

The classes will be made available for all Active Duty, dependents, retirees and civilians.

Horob explained the HAWC is also working to bring the program out to the squadrons if need be.

"We ask that commanders appoint a representative to help coordinate with our facilitator," said Horob. "We will provide information to the representative, who can then go back and provide training to members of their squadron on their own time."

According to the Department of Defense's economic impact report, there are certain costs incurred which pertain to overweight Active Duty members.

Studies have shown absenteeism due to obesity and overweight-related health problems can cost money and includes funds lost due to workforce showing up for work but not being fully engaged. $1.1 billion is also spent annually for medical care of obese and overweight Active Duty members.

Horob explained based on statistics, they have moved towards formulating programs that can target those in need. She said they were working on future programs aimed at helping people pass their physical training test as well.

For more information contact Horob at 723-2994 or sandra.horob@minot.af.mil.