Also See: HEALTHWISE: "Methodist Medical Center, Kingston Church Team Up for Parish Nurse Program" (01/10) Get on Track with Missy Kane Fit & Fun with Missy Kane

he latest research about obesity is alarming. "Ninety-seven million adults, or 55 percent of the U.S. population, are overweight or obese," says LSU nutritionist Dr. Beth Reams. And we also know that being obese is not just a problem with how you feel and look; it can kill you.

Dr. Reams goes on to say, "Obesity and excess weight substantially increase the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, type II diabetes, and certain cancers."

These statistics are ones that we at Covenant Health would love to see change. We will try to help those who need to lose weight through our exercise and health programs including my program called "Get on Track with Missy Kane".

Instead of just focusing on exercise through walking, I want to include other experts and individuals with success stories to join me in motivating overweight people to lose weight the healthy way.

Everybody who is overweight should first see and talk to a physician.

Here are a few things offered in my Get on Track walking and weight loss programs.

1. Basic health screening
2. Realistic goal setting
3. Weekly classes for six weeks
4. Speakers and handouts on nutrition, injury prevention, strength training, etc.
5. Training suggestions to follow during the week.
6. Log sheets to keep up with your progress.
7. Prizes for those who come regularly to the program

This year the first Get on Track program will be at Church Street United Methodist Church, 900 Henley Street. The program will begin Tuesday, Jan. 18. The regular Get on Track walking class will be at 11:30 a.m. A second class will be offered at 12:30 p.m. Classes will meet in the gym in the Church Life Center.

The second class is designed for those who need to lose 25 pounds or more. We will start with a 10-minute talk about weight loss and motivation, and we'll share others' success stories, followed by an easy combination of walking and exercises.

The cost of either class is only $15 for a six-week session. People can also be on my Get on Track mailing list for fitness, nutrition, motivational tips, and news about upcoming walking and hiking programs, 50 Plus Fitness classes, and more. Call 541-4500 for more information. Class size is limited!