A large number of City employees in Region B have taken the initiative to take control of their lives by embarking on a weight-loss programme in collaboration with health practitioners from the Helen Joseph Hospital. Although unhealthy lifestyles and obesity are pressing issues most people often ignore in South Africa, these municipal officials are determined to not only change the perception but to improve the quality of their lives.
Wednesday, 15 March marked the second weigh-in after the programme’s launch in February at the ACA Krans Building on Symons Road in Auckland Park.
The atmosphere was tense as participants shied away from stepping up on the weight measuring scale.
After a few words of encouragement, each official stepped up to the scale, ready to face their fate and eagerly await their results.
The weigh-in consisted of checking the body mass index (BMI) and waist measurement to determine each official’s progress over the past month. Some participants were pleased with their results, while others realised, they needed to work harder.
For those who did not meet their weight loss goal, a punishment of squats and jumping jacks was dished out. However, laughter filled the air as the participants became a unit and exercised together.
One official, Vava Tulwana, said she had joined the weight loss programme for health purposes, and was chuffed to have managed to lose 2.5 kg in just a month.
“I met my weight loss goal. This was a clear indication hard work pays off. I encourage my colleagues to join such programmes to improve the quality of their lives,” said Tulwana.
Region B’s version of “the Biggest Loser” is a step in the right direction as it aims to improve the quality of life for its participants.
After the weigh-in, all officials joined a presentation on healthy eating and food portions led by one of the dietitians from Helen Joseph Hospital. The dietician educated everyone on the type of food they should eat and the portion size they should have on their plates. Participants received booklets to take home, providing them with resources to continue making healthy choices.
Another dietitian, Amanda Williams, said Region B’s weight loss programme was designed to encourage participants to live a healthy lifestyle by making better food choices.
“I am impressed with the process the participants showed today because others managed to reach their desired weight loss goal.”
The event was a success, building momentum for the next weigh-in in April, with the ultimate goal being to make a positive impact in the lives of all participants.
As Nelson Mandela once said, “It always seems impossible until it’s done”. All Region B “Biggest Loser” participants are well on their way to achieving their goals, one step at a time.
Written by Kananelo Potsane
15/03/2023