YMCA to host new weight-loss program

YMCA of VW County information

Mission: Slim-possible. Those two words say it all in the YMCA’s newest weight loss challenge for 2015. For those ready to take their health and weight loss by storm, Mission Slim-possible is the answer. The program is designed for those who are beginning exercisers or individuals who need to lose 20 pounds or more.

This version of Mission: Slim-possible will be a six-week team challenge (teams of three or four people) and will include boot camp style workouts with YMCA certified trainer and Wellness Director Julie Schaufelberger. Workouts will be modified to meet the needs of all fitness levels and accommodate those with back or joint issues. Participants will be required to attend twice per week workouts, as well as do another workout on their own each week. Workouts will be on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 6-6:45 a.m. the first three weeks and 5:45 to 6:45 a.m. the last three weeks.

“People who exercise at the beginning of their day have more success sticking with their program,” Schaufelberger said. “There are fewer things to get in the way as the day progresses since it is already done.

“Those who have the support of others in a group setting also experience more success through the encouragement of others and the accountability to the group,” she added.

Nutritional support will also be available during Mission: Slim-possible. Participants are encouraged to use the 17-Day Diet; however, using the diet is not required. Another nutritional program may be used, but must be approved by Schaufelberger.

“The 17-Day Diet is a sound nutritional program that provides great results while being manageable for people,” Schaufelberger explained. “Meal plans and menus are laid out in the book, along with the portions of what should be eaten and there is great information throughout the book of why you should be eating what they recommend.”

Participants will also keep a food and exercise journal that will aid them in many ways.

“Food journals make people aware of what they are eating and it helps people break emotional eating habits and exercise journals show people the progress they are making in their workouts,” Schaufelberger said. “These will also lend to the overall success of the program.”

Cost of the program will be $20 for members and $50 for potential members. Potential members will be able to use the YMCA wellness and weight room facility anytime during regular business hours and they are welcome to participate in any of the free fitness classes the YMCA offers. Interested individuals may sign up any time until January 2, 2015, by stopping or calling the YMCA at 419.238.0443. Registration may also be completed online at vwymca.org. Any questions can be directed to Schaufelberger by email at julie@vwymca.org.

“This is a great opportunity for people to get a handle on their health, lose weight with the help of a certified trainer, and get support doing it. It could change your life and health, and perhaps you will be an inspiration for your family friends to make healthier decisions,” said Schaufelberger.

Information about this and any other programs available through the Van Wert YMCA can be found by calling 419.238.0443 or visiting www.vwymca.org. The YMCA of Van Wert County is partially funded by the Van Wert County Foundation and United Way.