ABC 12 – WJRT – Flint, MIThe pounds are dropping in three-ton challenge

(02/22/12) - The challenge is on to lose three tons in by March 1. The challenge, put forth by the Greater Flint Health Coalition, is for Genesee County residents to get active, get healthy and get out of last place when it comes to statewide health behaviors. Losing a community-wide total of three tons, is part of that plan.

The challenge began Jan. 2, this year. And, so far,  "Commit to Fit" participants are rising to it, says Tony Cuttitta, of the GFHC. "We're pretty close to our goal. We're two tons down, one ton to go."

Most participants have been keeping up on the Commit to Fit website. But, for those who have been losing weight, but keeping track, now is the time to make your pounds count, Cuttitta says. "All the individuals who initially signed up for the challenge back in January are encouraged to come back to the website, sign in and enter their final weight- starting January the 27th, through the first week of March."

Several local businesses are in on the challenge. McLaren Health Care is one of them.  Gai Clemmer, who supervises McLaren's McHealthy program, says it has been a win-win. "The Commit to Fit has really helped build our program because it gives the employees an incentive- to see how they are progressing with their weight loss in the fall and in this challenge."

The McHealthy program launched two years ago. More than 1,700 employees are participating. Of the 173 who are signed up for the Commit to Fit Three Ton Challenge, the biggest loser so far is down 37 pounds since January.  

"Everyone is very motivated, very excited, are always telling me they are updating their weight loss and coming to the McHealthy gym and weighing in," Clemmer says.

The Commit to fit challenges will continue, as long as the need for health incentives exists in this community. "The three ton healthy weight loss challenge is really January to February, but Commit to Fit as an initiative will continue again to help individuals and families to fit healthy lifestyles into their daily lives and activities is an ongoing initiative," Cuttitta says.

The Commit to Fit website is continuing to expand as demand increases. For this challenge, a healthy tips section, as well as nutrition and fitness classes were offered. 

For more information about Commit to Fit, visit :
https://www.healthycommunity.ca/committofit/default.aspxor or call 810-232-2228.