Eat Smart, Move More
LIVE FOR LIFE starts a new health initiative
A balanced diet and regular exercise should be a lifetime goal -- not just a New Year's resolution that fades away as soon as a fast food craving sets in.
That message is part of a new initiative organized by LIVE FOR LIFE, Duke's employee health promotion program.
Starting in November, employees can register online for Eat Smart, Move More at Duke, an initiative coordinated with the North Carolina Division of Public Health. The initiative begins Jan.15 for 10 weeks.
During the program, weekly tips on how to start and keep healthy diet and exercise habits will be posted online and sent by e-mail to participants.
"It's for people at all levels of fitness," said Jennifer Prish, program coordinator. "You set your own goals, and we'll provide the support."
As part of Eat Smart, Move More at Duke, employees and departments can also enter an essay contest to win a fitness and nutrition makeover. The essay -- up to 500 word testimonials from employees or departments -- must describe why the candidate should win and must be submitted by Dec. 4. One employee and one department will be selected Dec. 11.
The makeover begins Jan. 15 when Eat Smart, Move More at Duke kicks off. During the program, makeover winners will post and track their activities and successes online for others to read.
"We are looking for people who are ready to take some action and make a change," Prish said. "We want to give them the tools they need to be healthy and motivated, so they can keep it up after the 10 weeks."
LIVE FOR LIFE will offer prizes to makeover winners. Once a week, the employee winner gets Dinner On Demand, a packaged gourmet meal ready to cook. That winner also receives a weekly fitness and nutrition consultation, as well as a gym membership for 10 weeks.
The department winner receives a monthly cooking demonstration and group presentations from nutritionists and fitness instructors, including Brenna Crowson, personal trainer to Mrs. North Carolina 2006 Staci Wallace. Department members also get gym passes for the duration of the program.
"They're getting a team of professionals usually reserved for celebrities," Prish said.
All participants in Eat Smart, Move More at Duke will be eligible to receive prizes for recording their health goals, weight and exercise online. Employees who finish the 10 week program will receive $100 in LIVE FOR LIFE dollars for use at the LIVE FOR LIFE store.