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Dozens of people have already signed up to
join BE FIT Westchester. You can too.
America
is the land of plenty. But for some that abundance has translated
into unhealthy choices when it comes to the amounts and the types of
foods we eat.
The sedentary nature of our jobs and our hectic schedules also make
it difficult for us to get the exercise we need to keep in shape.
The result: More than 64 percent of adults and 17 percent of
children in the United States today are overweight.
Obesity is the number one public health threat in America today
because being overweight dramatically increases the risk of serious
health problems such as heart disease, stroke and high blood
pressure and diabetes.
That's why I'm issuing a challenge to all residents to Be Fit
Westchester, which just happens to be the name of our
county-wide fitness initiative. To help you get started, our Department of Health and
Department of Parks and Recreation have planned activities to help keep you focused on fitness. We have also designed this website
to help you keep on track with physical fitness goals.
On this site you can find out about Westchester County
sponsored nutrition programs and physical fitness
opportunities offered in our many parks and hiking trails.
You can
also sign up for
America on the Move. AOM is a national program that challenges participants
to move more and eat less. By walking an extra 2,000 steps (the
equivalent of about 1 mile or 30 minutes) and eating only 100 fewer
calories a day, you can prevent weight gain. This
comprehensive program allows you to chart your progress with weekly
reminders about your fitness goals.
So please, no excuses. Remember getting in shape can be fun. Not
only will it change your life, it just might save your life.
- Andy
Spano
Westchester County Executive
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