Live Better Fit Participants Celebrate Journey

Obesity rates and prevalence of chronic diseases are typically higher in South Georgia counties compared to Georgia and U.S. averages. In fact, obesity is the common denominator with many diseases prevalent in Thomas County, including heart disease, stroke, COPD, sleep disorders, vascular disease, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, spine problems and other conditions.

The top priority for Live Better, the Archbold-led collaborative of key community leaders and partners focused on improving the overall health in Thomas County, is to reduce the county obesity rate.

Six months ago, Live Better kicked off the Live Better Fit Program (LB Fit). The 25-week wellness program is a collaboration of local businesses and gyms that are committed to teaching people how to lead a healthier and more active lifestyle, which in turn will reduce obesity and improve overall health.

Nine participants were chosen by their respective Live Better partner gym. The nine participants were Robert Gilmore, Planet Fitness; Debbie Campbell, Planet Fitness; Rick Barnes, Thomasville YMCA; Kyle Register, Thomasville YMCA; Leslie Strickland, Thomasville CrossFit; Wendy Knight, BodyTrac Thomasville; Brittany Stone, BodyTrac Thomasville; and Chris and Gina Curry, Townie: A Fitness Community.

Each participant received a pre-program health screening which measured their BMI, blood pressure and cholesterol levels; fitness mentorship from a qualified professional at each of our the participating Live Better partner gyms; and access to a private Facebook group where participants could share their accomplishments, struggles and tips for staying on track and healthy recipes.

Participants also received scheduled wellness education and nutritional counseling from an Archbold dietitian, and were required to keep a blog about their journey.

At the end of the program, participants completed a post-program health screening and joined their fellow LB Fit team members at a celebration on December 10 at the Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce.

“I’m very thankful for this program,” said Debbie Bryant. “I’m thankful to our gym trainers, the staff at Archbold and everyone who helped us these last six months.”

“This program is not only helping us, but allowing us to pass on learned healthy habits to our kids,” said Wendy Knight.

“Our journey to a healthy life is just beginning,” said Chris Curry. “My wife and I have learned so much over the last six months about ourselves and what we can accomplish. We are excited for what the future holds.”

“We are extremely proud of these participants and the healthy habits they have adopted throughout this program,” said Todd Bennett, Archbold Clinical Outreach Manager. “We are excited to see them continue on the journey to a healthier life.”