Taking A Pledge To Lose Weight
by Laura Monteverdi, Reporter
December 22, 2012 5:39 PM
An estimated 45 percent of Americans will make a New Year’s resolution this year and the most popular is a pledge to lose weight. But according to research, fewer than one in ten will reach that goal.
“Obesity is a worldwide epidemic yet in South Dakota over half of our population is classified as obese," said Trisha Dohn, Wellness Director at Dakota Care in Sioux Falls.
It's a staggering statistic, but one that Dohn is determined to change. This New Year, Dakota Care started a program called the '2013 Pound Pledge.' The goal is to help South Dakotans lose weight.
“We are launching a statewide campaign and encouraging all South Dakotans to pledge to lose a total of 2,013 pounds for the New Year,” said Dohn.
It's a hefty goal, but Dohn said it’s a possible one.
“If we can get at least 200 people to pledge, on average it would be about a 10 pound weight loss per person for a healthy weight loss,” said Dohn.
She says taking the first step is the hardest part, but they've made it easy for those determined to stick to their New Year's goal.
“Individuals can go to our site at www.bewellsouthdakota.com or our Facebook and simply by entering their name, their height, their weight and the number of pounds they want to pledge it's as simple as that,” said Dohn.
They also have a blog with weekly updates and wellness advice. In addition to the reward of losing the weight, participants also have another prize to look forward to.
“For every week that they report back they are going to get a chance to win our grand prize which is a $200 Scheels gift card,” said Dohn.
For more information or to participate in the program, click here.
