Community Based Physical Activity Program: Healthy Charleston Challenge

There is overwhelming evidence that regular physical activity has wide-ranging health benefits. These range from reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, Type diabetes, and some cancers to preservation of function with age. At least 60% of the world's population fails to complete the recommended amount of physical activity required to induce health benefits. Most interventions have been focused on individual prescriptions for weight loss but newer community based programs have been recommended by the National Physical Activity Plan. The Healthy Charleston Challenge is an example of community-based program and nursing collaboration In 2008 South Carolina reported that less than 48% of the states' population participated in adequate levels of physical activity. To combat this obesity epidemic the (HCC) was developed in support of the Healthy South Carolina Initiative to promote health and wellness. Participants applying to HCC program should be 25+ pounds overweight and in need of permanently changing lifestyle habits for decreased risk of chronic disease. HCC is a 12- week lifestyle change program designed to increase physical activity and provide skills, professional guidance, and education critical for developing healthy lifestyle habits. To date over six sessions have been conducted with over 400 participants. The retention level of participants is approximately 90%. Over 12,000 pounds have been lost. There have been statistical significant changes in BMI, body fat percentage, anthropomorphic changes. Additionally, hypertensive medications and diabetic medication needs have statistically decreased. The program received the third place award by the Medical Fitness Association