Wellness, nutrition focus of ‘Well on Your Weigh’ program – Daily Nebraskan

While it’s hard for some to see the lasting effects in a meal choice, the endless food options offered on campus can quickly tip the scale. As a result, some students are turning to Campus Recreation at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for “a safe and fun weight loss program.”

“Well On Your Weigh” is a three-step program offered to UNL students and staff with a body mass index over 27.5.

However, the program doesn’t focus around one aspect of health and nutrition. The wellness and nutrition team are concerned with the overall well-being of participants. Also available alongside the program are cooking classes (known as Tasty Tuesdays), 5K training courses and sessions covering the latest in nutrition services and research, which have tips and guidelines to extend a healthy lifestyle on and off campus.

“We focus on physical activity, healthy eating, healthy/supportive relationships [for weight loss journey], positive self talk, goal setting and healthy sleep/stress habits,” said Kim Barrett, the assistant director of Wellness Services & Fitness Programs for UNL Campus Recreation, in an email.

For students entering college for the first time, weight gain spikes with titles such as the “Freshman 15” can be real issues concerning students’ health. Although Barrett said the “Freshman 15” is a myth, she said an increase in school work can consequently increase unhealthy weight gain due to increased stress.

Busy schedules sometimes restrain action when it comes to health, but “Well On Your Weigh” is flexible when it comes to its clients, Barrett said. Workouts at 7 a.m. are available and one-on-one consultations can be scheduled to fit accordingly to the client’s schedule. This plan revolves on the program’s main goal, to provide each individual with a supportive environment in order to reach a healthy weight status.

Finding the motivation to begin pursuing a healthy lifestyle is an ongoing endeavor which may only last as long as New Year’s resolutions, said Courtney Smith, a UNL graduate who received a degree in nutrition, exercise and health science.

“The biggest issue is creating a routine, and incorporating it into your daily life,” Smith said.

Just like getting a good grade on a test, developing an active and healthy pattern takes dedication, she said. With “Well On Your Weigh” being offered to 25 participants year-round in sets of four three-week sessions, each meeting provides support and motivation during all seasons. Sessions are $79 each or $210 for all four sessions.

This program is specifically helpful for those who dread the watchful atmosphere of the student weight room or who struggle with self-motivation. Anyone who is unsure of the program doesn’t have to feel pressured to begin this commitment. As Barrett said, she and the Wellness and Nutrition team encourage people to participate in a trial before deciding to enter the program.

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