There’s an ideal opportunity for men to be the latest signing to ‘Shape Up’ and reap the health benefits this autumn, as a new weight management course gets under way in Bushey.
The 12-week programme called ‘Shape Up’ focusses on combatting the growing problem of obesity amongst middle aged men in Hertfordshire and is aimed at men aged 18 to 65 with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or over. Use the NHS choices BMI calculator to find out your BMI.
Sessions will take place at St Margaret’s School in Bushey on Wednesday nights between 7:30pm and 9pm from September 26.
Participants meet up weekly for a 90 minute session consisting of a 30 minute educational segment and a 60 minute physical activity session. These two segments are delivered with the aim to develop a healthy relationship with food and change unhealthy behaviours and habits that cause weight gain.
Shape Up has seen over 850 men engage in sessions across Hertfordshire with participants recording a staggering collective weight loss of over 3.1 tonnes with 23.6 million calories burned over that time. Improvements in mental health have also been seen with 93 per cent of participants reporting improved self-esteem.
Councillor Caroline Clapper, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Health, said: “Promoting healthy weight and increasing physical activity is an important priority for the council. We are delighted that Watford FC CSE Trust is continuing to deliver a course for men in Bushey and we encourage all men who fit within the criteria to sign up.
“Shape Up has already changed lives by encouraging men to think about the causes of obesity and how, by making changes to their lifestyle, they can reduce the risk of obesity related diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
“By making a small commitment of just 90 minutes a week, you can make a real difference to your health and wellbeing, which will give you more energy to do the things you love, whether that’s playing football with the kids or enjoying time out with friends.”
Obesity is a national problem, and one that is growing fast. Currently 63 per cent of adults who live in Hertsmere are carrying excess weight and this is predicted to rise. Promoting a healthy weight and increasing the levels of physical activity will help lead to a reduction in risk of major diseases, such as diabetes and coronary heart disease.
This course is open and accessible to all, delivering at a number of different venues across Hertfordshire. Participants can get involved with Shape Up by contacting 01923 494391 or andrew.garlick@watfordfc.com. For more information visit the Shape Up website.
0 Comments