Applications for the Biggest Loser weight-loss program can be picked up at the City Recreation Center, 52 US Oval. Applications must be returned by Monday, Feb. 22, and must include a permission form to participate from a physician. For more information on the Biggest Loser program or the walking club the Recreation Department is forming for people who want help in starting a routine exercise program, call Steve Peters at 324-7709.
PLATTSBURGH — James Snook looks to be the region's "biggest loser" as he and nine other participants head into a four-month weight-loss program that can translate into victory for all involved by midsummer.
Snook, branch manager for Community Bank, sees the opportunity as a way to achieve success in losing weight — something that has at times been elusive for him.
"It's been difficult to make a commitment (to losing weight)," he said of the battle that has seen him top the 300-pound plateau. "My goal is to become more responsible with weight management. I want a lifestyle change."
The City of Plattsburgh Recreation Department and the local chapter of the American Heart Association have joined forces to initiate the North Country's Biggest Loser Weight-Loss Program, a concept that is modeled after the popular television show in name only.
"We're calling it the Biggest Loser Club," said Steve Peters, superintendent for the City Rec Department. "It's not really a competition. There are a lot of folks out there who just need a little motivation to get out and get healthy. We hope to provide them that opportunity."
HEALTHY HABITS
Statistics for obesity in the region are alarming, Peters noted. An estimated 43 percent of kids between 2 and 19 are overweight or at risk for being overweight, and 56 percent of their parents are overweight or obese, he said.
"Those are staggering numbers. Seven out of 10 deaths are directly related to lifestyle choices (including smoking, alcohol and poor diet/exercise habits). That's seven out of 10 deaths that could be prevented."
During two sessions weekly at the City Recreation Center, participants will work on planned exercise programs and educational nutrition sessions.
"Proper diet and exercise helps reduce the risk of heart attack and lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels," said Mary Duprey, a personal trainer who will be overseeing the exercise portion of the program.
"Healthy habits also reduce the risk of some cancers and type 2 diabetes. You will have more energy when you eat properly and exercise regularly."
Weight loss can also help reduce a person's need for medications to treat such conditions as high blood pressure and diabetes, said Ann Watts, a dietician from CVPH Medical Center who will be providing participants with nutrition information on a regular basis.
ROLE MODEL
Workouts will include weight training, circuit training and cardio workouts. Group sessions will be held Monday and Thursday evenings from 5 to 7, with participants expected to spend one more session a week in the gym on their own.
"By doing this over a four-month period, you're really starting to make lifestyle changes," Watts said.
The best results for keeping weight off come through altering habits, she explained.
The evening hours will also help working people develop a routine that can fit into their schedule, added Faith Long, director of the local American Heart Association office.
"It's hard to find that extra time to fit into your day," she said. "This way, you can work with a trainer and learn how to continue on your own."
Snook, 46, has confidence that the program will be a benefit health-wise and will help him become a better role model for his children, Emma, 6, and Gabriel, 3.
"I waited a long time to have children, and now that I have them, they're my world," he said. "How long will that world last if I don't lose weight, if I don't tend to my heart?"
Snook has a family history of heart disease and hopes to use the support over the next four months to achieve his goal and improve his overall health.
The program will be limited to 10 participants to provide one-on-one personal-training support. A committee will choose the remaining openings based on several factors gathered from applications submitted to the Rec Department.
Participants will be recognized for their achievements at a ceremony during the Mayor's Cup Weekend.
E-mail Jeff Meyers at: jmeyers@pressrepublican.com
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