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Local Sports

Local sports in the Panhandle are not just a game, they are a lifestyle. Our community eats, sleeps and breathes cheering on our local athletes.
News13 is On Your “Sidelines” bringing you more than the score.
News13’s Stephen Gunter is committed to giving you stories of the Panhandle’s top athletes, intriguing match-ups and unusual sports you may not even know exist.
sgunter@wmbb.com

Thursday, January 04, 2007

Balanced For Life

PANAMA CITY - Many people’s New Year’s resolutions involve getting their bodies into shape.  The “Balanced for Life” program is guaranteed to get you off on the right foot.

“It’s not a diet,” Joe Scully said.  “It’s a lifestyle change.”

In a fast food world, the Bay County Health Department encourages people to eat healthy and exercise with it’s eight-week “Balanced for Life” program.  It rewards participants for eating correctly and excercising.

The program kicks-off on Sat., Jan. 6 with a 5K walk.  The only thing you have to lose is a few pounds.

“Each participant is encouraged to set a goal,” Bay Co. Health Dept. Director Dr. Jason Newsome said.  “They first establish what their current habits are then they set a goal to increase what they’re eating and physical activity.”

The “Balanced for Life” program provides it’s participants with healthy lifestyle educational materials each week.  In addition, you can team-up with co-workers so you don’t have to exercise alone.

“My co-workers really get enthusiastic when they can participate with other folks and go for walks,” Registered Dietician Kathy Riley said.

The program has been around for five years.  This will be the second year that Scully, and employee at the Health Dept. has participated.

“I was just feeling better in general; sleeping better at night, walking instead of watching T.V after dinner.  I noticed a change in shopping habits.  We shop more for fruits and vegetables.”

Riley said a good ballpark figure is to eat nine fruits and vegetables per day.

“A lot of folks weren’t even getting 2-3 servings,” Riley said.  “Fruits and vegetables are nutrient dense, meaning lots of nutrients, but low in calories.”

She also said getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day can greatly improve your health.

The program kicks-off January 6 at 10 a.m. at McKenzie Park in Panama City with a 5K walk.  There are no entry fees and the first 100 walkers to register will be given a free pedometer.  To register, call the Bay County Health Department at (850) 872-4455.

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