The Pine Bluff Arsenal's Directorate of Law Enforcement and Security is getting in shape and getting healthy through their own version of "Biggest Loser". The program, which was launched in May, is strictly voluntary, but organizer Kristy Burnett, a DLES administrative assistant, said that it is already paying off in results.
"When I was thinking about developing the program, I wanted it to be used to boost better morale among the employees in DLES," said Burnett, who is a college junior majoring in kinesiology. "Before I went to Mr. (Don) Police, I talked with the other division chiefs, and they thought it would be a great idea. I knew that Summer (Broach) has a program Arsenal-wide, and I wanted to come up with something similar for just my directorate."
The purpose of the program, according to Burnett, is to promote healthy eating habits and lifestyle among DLES employees. "Excess weight gain has become a great issue in America. Enrollment in the program will help develop healthier diets, weight loss and boost morale among employees," read the program memorandum, developed by Burnett.
"The program is not based on making people follow a program," she said. "Any dieting or exercise is based on personal preference."
Burnett said that Summer Broach, health and fitness coordinator for the Arsenal's fitness center has been speaking to the participants about health and wellness. "She has been giving small classes on eating habits and reading food labels," said Burnett. "This helped everyone form a bond in the program."
Approximately 30 individuals are participating in the program which will run for eight weeks from the first weigh in June 4 to the final weigh in July 31.
The program will be based on the loss of body fat (body mass index) and not pounds. The participant who loses the most body fat percentage will be the winner. Male and female participants will compete separately due to the difference in body composition, and there will be a first, second and third place for both categories.
An award ceremony will be held Aug. 4.
Social Sharing