Who will be Akwesasne’s biggest loser?

The Biggest Loser Weight Loss Challenge is coming to Akwesasne. MCA’s Community Health Program, with funding from Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative, developed their own version of the hit TV show calling it The 3 Districts “Biggest Loser” Challenge. The idea was the result of a similar program out of six Nations Healthy Promotions Office which has been done for the past 2 years with much success. Already there are 50 teams signed up to take part in the challenge, which is approximately 200 people.

Just like the TV show, Akwesasne’s Biggest Loser Challenge is designed to help motivate people to lose weight in a healthy manner; to lose body fat and regain muscle mass; and to create a support system working towards these goals. The only differences are that no teams will be kicked off; participants are expected to create their own diet and fitness routines with help from Community Health Program; and of course there are no cameras.

“No matter what your goals are in life, whether its weight loss, new job, relationships, etc… dedication, commitment, and perseverance are key,” said Mandy Graham, registered dietitian with the Community Health Program, “I would like to encourage everyone to work together as a team, support one another and give it your very best. If you do that, then no matter what the outcome is, you will be a winner! Remember, the ultimate goal in this challenge is your health!”

Teams consist of 4 members, must be Native, 25 years or older, and reside within the 3 districts. Participants weigh in every month using a technique known as the body composition analyzer starting Sept. 18 and ending Dec. 11. The body composition analyzer monitors a number of variables including total body fat. This technique is also helpful in determining if the weight lost was due to healthy habits like diet and exercise rather than poor nutrition. These numbers are recorded and kept secret until the end. The winning team is the one with the largest combined total body fat and members will receive a Wal-mart shopping spree, just in time for the holiday season.

As part of the challenge, participants are expected to take part in various workshops and take advantage of the services offered by the Community Health Program. Teams can meet one-on-one with the registered dietitian to create their own diet and exercise routines: some teams have chosen to meet at the gym while others created walking groups that meet at various locations within Akwesasne. Participants also have access to fitness classes offered by the Community Health Program on Mondays and Thursdays. Community Health Program also provides teams with workshops designed to promote healthy lifestyles, such as grocery store tours and cooking classes. At the conclusion of the challenge participants are encouraged to continue meeting with the Community Health Program dietitian and to support one another to continue their healthy lifestyle changes.