Twitter
Facebook
Airmen are not immune to weight creep, the seemingly harmless weight gain of about one and a half to two pounds per year. The implications of this extra body weight extend into all areas of life – health, fitness, overall wellness and force readiness.
Left unchecked, it contributes to the conditions of being overweight and obese. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 64.5 percent of the U.S. adult population is either overweight or obese. The very existence of overweight and obese conditions, with their associated complications, contributes not only to higher health care costs and loss of productivity, but also costs lives.
Weight creep takes a quantum leap during the holiday season followed by New Year’s resolutions to get in shape. While most resolutions begin with good intentions, without the right tools, motivation wanes. Many times resolutions include the words “never, always, immediately, must” and those absolutes may be setting one up for failure.
Here are pointers to help set realistic goals to achieve and maintain a healthy weight:
-Be specific. Rather than generally vowing to “lose weight,” set a specific time period and an amount of weight.
-Try to make small, gradual changes that will last long-term, not drastic makeovers to lifestyle patterns.
-Take a resolution seriously. Take some time to think about it and commit. Only have one or two resolutions.
-A slip is not a fall. Keeping a New Year’s resolution is not an all-or-nothing proposition.
-Remember, regular exercise along with a sensible diet is key to weight management.
-Get involved with health and wellness or fitness centers, and learn practical, safe tips and tools to help control weight.
For more advice, call the Ramstein HAWC at 480-4292.
