This
summer, I've made it my mission to get up, out and away
from my computer (my version of work) every day...and
move!
With
countless fad diets and quick weight-loss claims, it's
no wonder women are skeptical when they hear the words
"new exercise plan" or "latest diet program."
That's why the American Heart Association found a group
of seven women to take the Choose
To Move challenge, a
free physical activity program that encourages women
to include exercise in their busy schedules while also
reducing the risk for heart disease, women's No. 1 killer.
After
12 weeks, these women found Choose To Move a success,
resulting in a total weight loss of more than 60 pounds
and an average increase of over 5,000 steps per day.
In turn, they discovered the benefits of developing
a healthier lifestyle through increased physical activity
and a nutritious diet - no matter their age or life
stage.
In
January, the women had a comprehensive physical evaluation
at The Cooper Institute in Dallas, receiving blood and
cholesterol screenings, treadmill stress tests, diet
analysis and physician consultations. Throughout the
program, they blogged online and recorded video diaries
of their successes and challenges. "One of the
most motivating elements of this program was the strength
and encouragement I found in other women who joined
the challenge," said challenger Kara Byrd of Atlanta.
"We all lent and received support that proved crucial
in reaching our individual goals. A true support system
goes beyond your immediate circle - these six other
women are now my family."
"These
seven women were proactive by joining Choose To Move's
realistic and easy-to-follow program," said Jennifer
H. Mieres, M.D., associate professor of medicine and
director of Nuclear Cardiology at New York University.
"Anyone can start on day one, and 12 weeks later
you're guaranteed some outcome that's favorable...favorable
for blood pressure, cholesterol levels and weight control,
as well as the fight to prevent heart disease."
"These
bold women have worked hard to become role models for
other women who are struggling to stay motivated and
active," said Marie Osmond, a spokesperson for
the program and a mother of eight whose own mother died
of cardiovascular disease in 2004. "It's vitally
important for women to pay attention to their health.
We all need support when it comes to a routine of proper
exercise and healthy eating. Choose To Move is a common-sense
solution for all women that promotes healthy bodies
and minds."
The
free program offers a variety of support materials,
including a step-by-step plan, a helpful handbook, monthly
e-mails with suggestions for physical activity, tips
on how to stay motivated and flavorful recipes that
include nutritional information.
"Women
who are educated and savvy don't always translate their
knowledge about heart disease and prevention into their
daily lives," Mieres said. "The Choose To
Move program hits close to the heart of real women,
letting them know that physical activity is a key component
in the fight against heart disease."
Easy-to-use
tips include:
-
Park
a few blocks from the office or store and walk.
-
Walk
to a nearby restaurant instead of driving.
-
Plan
snacks the same way you plan meals. Instead of carrying
a candy bar or a bag of chips for the hustle and
bustle, bring a container of fat-free or low-fat
yogurt, fruit or a homemade snack mix made with
a salt-free seasoning blend.
-
Get
your spouse and kids to go on a play date with you.
It's great for family togetherness while fitting
in fitness.
-
Take
an activity break. Get up, stretch and walk around.
If you can't get 30 minutes at once, try two 15-minute
walks.
Choose
To Move is part of the American Heart Association's
Go Red For Women national movement to raise awareness
of cardiovascular disease as the No. 1 killer of women
and inspire women to take action and reduce their risk.
Women can register for Choose To Move by visiting choosetomove.org
or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1 (1-800-242-8721).
Choose
to move this summer!
All
The Best,
Beth Aldrich
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