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about usWEIGHT WATCHERS® KICKS OFF SPRING BY URGING PEOPLE TO GET MOVING WITH “THE MOMENTUM™ WALK-IT CHALLENGE”
Challenge Embraces Weight Watchers Proven Principles of Movement and Supportive Atmosphere to
Achieve a Healthier Lifestyle |
NEW YORK, NY (April 13, 2009) – Weight Watchers announced the launch of The Momentum Walk-It Challenge, encouraging members to take a major step towards integrating more physical activity into their lives. Between April 12 and June 6 Weight Watchers members and Online subscribers will be able to join The Momentum Walk-It Challenge. Once a member joins or creates a walking team or signs up for a 5K event, they will get access to a free eight-week online training program – to help reach an activity goal of walking a 5K. In addition, all participants who complete the eight-week walking training program will be eligible to download a special President’s Challenge Award from Weight Watchers. The President’s Challenge is a free, motivational tracking program of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports and encourages making activity part of everyday life.
“Activity and group support are two of Weight Watchers four pillars of healthy weight loss,” said David Kirchhoff, President and CEO of Weight Watchers International, Inc. “Our program teaches members how to make activity part of their daily routine and stay active throughout their lives.”
According to the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, adults can gain substantial health benefits from physical activity, including two and one half hours a week of moderate intensity aerobic physical activity like brisk walking, coupled with strength training activities.1 For those focusing on weight management, research has shown that 90% of people who have kept weight off successfully include regular activity in their lives.2
Weight Watchers has engaged Active Marketing Group, a division of The Active Network, the largest global provider of integrated technology solutions, marketing services and online media properties that encourage and enable participation in activities and events. The goal of The Momentum Walk-it Challenge is to show members how worthwhile it is to get moving towards better health and will help connect people into mini-social networks to walk together and train towards an attainable goal. Walking is a great way to get moving, burn calories and tone muscles.
“We applaud Weight Watchers for their efforts in promoting the importance of physical activity, fitness and making healthy lifestyle choices. Whether individuals are already active on a regular basis, or just starting to incorporate physical activity into their daily lives, it is a great personal achievement to take these steps which can, over time, produce long-lasting health benefits,” said Rear Adm. Penelope Slade-Sawyer, P.T., M.S.W., acting executive director of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. |
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“In my experience as a coach and in my own life, I’ve learned that people find it easier to stay healthy and active in a team environment,” said Jenny Hadfield, inspirational fitness coach, Active.com Trainer and author of Marathoning for Mortals. “Through Weight Watchers meetings and now walking teams, people can encourage each other to make their way to an event that can change their lives for the better—together.” About Weight Watchers International, Inc.
Weight Watchers International, Inc. is the world's leading provider of weight management services, operating globally through a network of Company- owned and franchise operations. Weight Watchers holds over 50,000 weekly meetings where members receive group support and education about healthy eating patterns, behavior modification and physical activity. WeightWatchers.com provides innovative, subscription weight management products over the Internet and is the leading Internet-based weight management provider in the world. In addition, Weight Watchers offers a wide range of products, publications and programs for those interested in weight loss and weight control. About Active Marketing Group
Active Marketing Group, a division of The Active Network, Inc., is a digital media and marketing services firm that leverages its direct relationship to communities nationwide to help brands connect with active-minded consumers. With leading online media assets, a national network of partners and deep integrated marketing expertise, Active Marketing Group creates authentic connections that drive brand value. |
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1 Available at www.health.gov/paguidelines/pdf/paguide.pdf
2 Wing R, Phelan S. Long-term weight loss maintenance. Am J Clin Nutr. 2005 Jul; 82(1 Suppl): 222S-225S. |
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