When the new year begins, so do commitments to drop extra pounds and live healthier lifestyles. However, many people find it hard to keep these promises to themselves.
Walk-A-Weigh, a program of the Mississippi State Extension Service, gives people the proper tools to change their lifestyles by helping them improve their eating habits and stick to regular exercise routines. It began as a pilot program in 2015 and is offered statewide through the MSU Extension Service.
“The program has been going on for two years. It is geared around healthy eating and healthy choices,” said Anna Austin of the Mississippi State Extension Service in Montgomery County. “We have increased a little being the New Year. We have room to expand for the upcoming year. We are excited about it.”
The 15-week Walk-A-Weigh program utilizes community resources, such as hospitals and fitness consultants, to help people determine their needs and set personal goals. During the first meeting, program partners record health readings, such as weight, blood pressure, and body mass index. Participants set goals for themselves based on what they want to achieve.
Each meeting includes some type of exercise and an educational session on physical activity and food choices. Topics include understanding nutrition labels, proper use of pedometers, recommendations for cutting calories, and the right ways to stretch before and after exercise. Participants also get recipes for healthy meals and snacks, which they save in custom cookbooks.
“It’s free of charge and fun fellowship with friends. It’s for any age,” said Austin. “We all walk inside, but when it gets prettier we can move outside.”
Call Anna Austin at the county extension office at 662-283-4133 for more information on the Walk-A-Weigh program.
