Tumiqqaaq!
“The First Step”
What is the first step? The first step is a program that promotes activity and rewards weight loss. The first step is a six week program where the goal is to lose six pounds but rewards the biggest loser in each division with a special prize. You can participate as a team (3 – 4 individuals), a family (2 – 6 individuals), or on your own.
What are the activities? The activities are up to you. You can participate in city league basketball or get together with a group of friends for dance aerobics. Participate in the many “Challenge Life” activities or take a walk with the family. If you would like a workout program and you’re not sure where to begin, go to the Challenge Life website (www.challengelife.org) and try one of our varied workout programs.
What are the rewards? A longer life, more energy, sleep better, lower your risk of coronary heart disease, strengthen your bones, reduce stress, rev up your metabolism, improve your physical appearance, lower your blood pressure and much more. Oh, and “Challenge Life” will throw in the following incentives:
First Place: The first place individual and group in each division will receive a round trip ticket on ERA Alaska.
Second Place: “Challenge Life” workout gear.
Where and when do we sign up? Sign up and weigh in will take place at the Barrow High School basketball games the weekend of January 29 and 30. The weigh in will be conducted by the Barrow High School cheerleaders outside the gymnasium.
Health, An American Epidemic
A “health time bomb” is ticking in the United States. The ten leading causes of death in the United States include five examples where diet and an inactive lifestyle play a major role. Heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease all have a strong relationship to diet and lack of activity. Diet and activity also play a significant role in the “quality of life” of Americans. Fiscally, at a time when our country is struggling with debt, health care is placing a tremendous strain on the economy. If we use diabetes as just one example, the total direct medical cost in the United States in 2007 was $116 billion. We have a problem!
In Alaska, health issues are even more pronounced. Recent statistics taken from Trust for America’s Health, 2007 and Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, 2003 reveal the following statistics:
In 2002, the number of Alaskan Natives (20 years or older) diagnosed with diabetes was 15.3% of the population compared to 7.3% of the rest of the population.
According to the 2000 census report, the national average for life expectancy in the United States was 76.7 years. Alaskan Natives have a life expectancy of 69.4 years.
What We Can Do!
Health for your heart: You can lower the risk of heart disease by walking 20 minutes, three times a week.
Weight Loss: You need a combination of cardio and strength training for 45 minutes, 5 – 6 days a week. Of course, eating healthy makes a big difference.
Take the “First Step”
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