Posted 12:43 am Sunday, November 06, 2011
YMCA Launches Push To Whittle Waists
By COSHANDRA DILLARD
Staff Writer
Staff Writer
During the month of November, area residents have an opportunity to lose weight and donate to a worthy cause at the same time.
YMCA officials announced its Fat Pants Program would do just that. As part of a month-long membership drive, they are offering a free 10-week weight loss program for new members, valued at $300. At the end of the program, members are encouraged to donate their loose-fitting clothes to The Salvation Army, the beneficiary of the program.
"As we approach the holidays, we wanted to participate in something that not only drove membership but also partnered with other nonprofit organizations in the spirit of the holiday season," said Brandon Salisbury, association executive director of YMCA Tyler/Whitehouse.
"Our hope is that when you lose weight, your pants will go down at least a size or two, but we'll accept belts, T-shirts, shoes, whatever you're willing to donate."
Registration for the program began Tuesday and the last day to sign up is Nov. 30. Participants will have a consultation with a consultant from Complete Nutrition and a personal trainer at the beginning the program.
Baseline measurements depends on the participant's goals and may include body fat percentage, resting heart rate and a fitness test for cardiovascular capacity.
Members will have two workouts with a trainer in a group setting and three additional tailored workout sessions each week. Teams will be formed and the team with the greatest weight loss wins a prize. Coworkers, friends or family members who wish to create a team are welcomed as well.
Participants will have access to a Web-based coach, which keeps track of individuals' nutrition. The program is not a quick fix, Salisbury said. He said YMCA fitness professionals encourage realistic goals instead of the standard New Year's resolution.
"We want people to understand that working out and being healthy is a lifestyle," he said. "It is not a 10-week program. That's why we have nutrition consultants teaching during this program. We also hope to instill a habit of working out and setting aside time to make that happen."
