We recently wrapped up the One Ton o' Fun six-month fitness challenge program. It was significant because for the first time at RunTex we focused on people who were sedentary and overweight. We brought together 12 individuals who had over 100 pounds to lose and worked with them for six months to improve their daily eating and activity habits. Our 12 participants recruited 10 other team members to join them in the process.
We used our standard RunTex University model for the physical activity, which includes meeting with the groups once a week to help them add exercise based on their conditions. Since they were overweight, first and foremost they were fitted with very supportive shoes and insoles that matched their foot types. One interesting point was they didn't all get the same shoe - they got the shoe that best supported each person's individual foot. Some needed an additional insole to support the arch. Running shoes are great because they are built to handle much more than a normal runner's body weight. When you run, the impact of landing is a three times your weight, usually 300 to 500 pounds. If you are overweight, running shoes are a perfect match for walking.
Our workouts began with simple technique drills that we recommend for all runners and walkers, We adjusted the distance and speed downward to keep from creating any injury. It is always important to condition the supporting and opposing muscles as well as the joints before you really get moving. One thing we know is the body is always conditioned to the level of routine. So if you are not active, the body is conditioned for inactivity. This means the postural muscles of the heavier person are strong, but not necessarily aerobically fit. The opposing muscles and balancing muscles need conditioning as well. We started with a 1.5-mile walk where the participants could stop and rest when needed. Exercise that includes rest periods is known as interval training and it makes exercise more comfortable.
We then had the participants attend seminars where experts spoke about the power of food and the benefits of increasing daily activity. We started them with just one day a week of activity. After a few weeks, we started adding to their activity and built up to four or five days a week for some. It was an amazing process to watch. Our participants had great coaches, great groups and there was so much excitement about it.
What we watched was the empowering of individuals to change habits that affected how they felt and how they looked. Many of our participants lost 70 pounds during the six months. More importantly they changed their food choices and increased their activity level from barely walking a mile to walking 10-12 miles on a Sunday. Three participants - Matt Curtis, Kenny Taylor and Joe Bacon - were examples of guys who completely turned their lives around. I can't believe how different they are now. Sure, they lost 70 pounds each, but more importantly they learned to control their routines. Now they are strong, conditioned, eating well and feel they have a new lease on life.
I am so proud of our staff, the participants and their team members for proving our system works for everyone.