State lawmakers lead the fight against obesity - MSNewsNow.com - Jackson, MS

State lawmakers lead the fight against obesity

By: Jewell Hillery

Jackson, MS (WLBT)

A jog on the treadmill at JSU's Walter Payton Fitness Center has become apart of state Representative John Hines' early morning routine.

Representative Hines says, "I think it's a commitment to changing your life and its the ability to see that you need to improve yourself."

Representative Hines is one of more than 200 lawmakers, state employees and Jackson residents committed to the second year of the 12 week "Fit For Change Challenge."

Senator Kenneth Wayne Jones "we're also here this year to support the newcomers to let them know you're going to reach your goals and we're going to help you."

Four days a week, fitness coach Paul Lacoste leads program participants in an intense one hour workout, and it's paying off.

"In the program I lost 74 pounds last year and lost 16 pounds this year, so overall, I've lost over 110 pounds, so I'm trying to get back to my high school days," says Representative Hines.

In the first three weeks of this years"Fit for Change," challenge, participants have lost a combined total of 1,500 pounds, that's more weight lost than the all of the 2010 program combined.

Fitness expert Paul Lacoste says, "it inspires me to continue this fight and inspires me to keep pushing and get as many people involved in our training as I can."

But it's not just about the jumping jacks, biceps curls and running. It's about encouraging and leading the entire state of Mississippi to help fight the obesity epidemic.

Representative Hines says, "we're willing to put in the hard work, make the dedication and make changes so that other people can see if we're willing to tighten our belts and change our lifestyle they can do the same."

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