THE BIGGEST LOSER

Have you got what it takes to face an innovative challenge to beat the battle of the bulge?

The search is on for The Heath’s biggest weight loss loser and it is all part of an exciting initiative for people living in the community around the successful business and science park.

Worrying statistics show that Runcorn has some of the highest rates of obesity, diabetes and other weight-related illnesses in the country. Staff at The Heath Business and Technical Park’s leisure suite already work with local health care organisations in a bid to improve the fitness of people who struggle with their weight. But they are determined to do more to help local residents towards a healthier lifestyle.

Eileen Miller, The Heath’s Leisure Suite Manager, says: “We intend to improve the statistics in our local area. We are inviting five couples to take part in a weight loss challenge. This is no ordinary weight-loss programme. It is not for people who want to lose a few pounds to fit into a swimsuit or pair of trousers. It is for people who have serious health and weight issues, want to be healthy, want a better quality of life and want more self-confidence. This is a genuine attempt to improve the lives of ten people. There is no cost to the challengers other than commitment and sheer hard work.”

The challenge will run for 12 weeks and each couple will be allocated their own instructor and mentor among the professionals at the leisure centre. They will have unlimited use of the facilities for the duration of the 12 weeks as well as dietary advice and support from St Helen’s and Halton Primary Care Trust through the Healthy Living Team. Although dieting as couples, the challenge is for an individual to become the biggest loser.

The criteria used to be considered a ‘couple’ is two people living in the same household so they can motivate and encourage each other at home as well as in the gym. The challenge kicks off with a bonding session in December, introduction to training in January and then extremely hard work in February in March!

Eileen says:” We are very excited about this initiative. Our gym here is busy with members in the mornings before work, at lunch times and in the evenings. We already work with local Healthy Living Teams to help people referred by their doctors. Using the down times at the gym when we are quiet we have helped a number of people tackle their weight problems. Statistics show that the Runcorn area does have serious health issues and we are keen to do what we can to help people achieve a happier, healthier lifestyle. Hopefully they will catch the fitness bug.”

Eileen adds: “There’s nothing scary about coming to our leisure centre. We are extremely friendly and want to put people at ease. We are not a big lycra gym! We want to do something for the community and think this exciting challenge could help kick-start a healthy new future for five couples.”

For details of the challenge and how you can get involved call Eileen Miller on 01928 513887 or download the application form.