New year, new you: YMCA program gives jumpstart to healthier lifestyle

SIKESTON -- Many individuals are resolving to lose weight and get healthy in the new year, but a majority of them don't know where to begin.

Oftentimes entering -- and re-entering -- the workout scene can be an intimidating process -- from not knowing which exercises to do and how often to finding the locker room or setting a machine for a suitable workout.

To ease any apprehension and assist with fitness goals, the YMCA of Southeast Missouri in Sikeston offers its Health Seeker Initiative.

"It's basically an eight-week program, and it starts with fitness consultation," said Eric Chappell, healthy living director/youth development of sports at the YMCA.

Through Health Seeker, new and existing YMCA members can set up a time to meet with a health coach or Chappell. They come to the Y and consult with a health coach for 45 minutes to an hour.

"We run some different tests, fill out a health history questionnaire and ask about goals," Chappell said. "We get them a program immediately and walk them through everything in the program."

When the member comes back the next time, someone in the fitness center is there to help them with any questions about the program, Chappell said.

"The health coach is going to make weekly contact with the person and ensure they get what they need -- whether they have questions about their diet, smoking and anything involving the health and fitness field," Chappell said.

After eight weeks, another consultation will be conducted and members will be given a base of what they've accomplished during that eight weeks. The results are put in perspective, and they see they've made some positive changes and improvement in their health," Chappell said.

"The goal is to keep them engaged in those first eight and nine weeks, and by the end, it's a lifestyle change and a habit," Chappell said.

Health Seeker is different from previous programs offered because the contact is constant for the eight weeks and participants receive their exercise programs right away, Chappell said.

For the complete story, see the weekend edition of the Standard Democrat.