Get Fit Toledo (GFT) has been on the down low the past few months, leaving many to wonder if the program is fizzling out. According to new director Dave Carleski, that’s hardly the case.

“We’ve been meeting regularly to decide what the next step is for the program,” he said.

Toledo Mayor Carty Finkbeiner started GFT with the goal of providing Lucas County residents with access to health information, programs and resources they need to lead a healthy lifestyle. To supplement the program, the mayor created the GOLD plate award for restaurants that offer healthy menu options. More than 26 restaurants in Toledo, such as Sori Sushi, Tiger Bakery and Cousino’s Navy Bistro, to name a few, have earned GOLD plate status. Whether citizens have taken advantage of this initiative is unknown.

In the December issue of Self magazine, a survey of the 100 largest U.S. metro cities found Toledo as the fourth unhealthiest city for women in the country. Rankings were based on more than 50 categories, including death and disease rates, environmental indicators, community resources and lifestyle habit.

“Those statistics are extremely disturbing,” said Ashley Williams, a University of Toledo graduate with a master’s degree in public health. “Businesses and the city pay more money to health insurance companies when employees are unhealthy.”

The mayor blames history.

“Toledo has been unhealthy for both men and women because of our industrial past,” he said. “This is changing. It is urgent that Toledo stresses healthy living choices.”

“We understand that it’s difficult to change your lifestyle. We want this program to meet people where they are.” Carleski said. “People should not feel bad about being overweight. It’s never too late to start working out and changing your eating patterns.”

Starting in April, Get Fit Toledo is offering a calendar of free events. Local gyms, doctors and nutrition experts have teamed up to provide opportunities for everyone.

“It’s important for everyone to maintain a healthy lifestyle,” Carleski said. “To do that you need to understand why you’re unhealthy in the first place. This program gives you the opportunity to try new techniques and meet people who have the same goals.”

Food — Did you know?

Processed turkey breast has about 16 times as much sodium per serving as to fresh, roasted turkey breast.

Upcoming events:

• April is Get Fit Toledo Month: Get ready for a month full of free events, seminars and fun.
• May 20 is Bike to Work Day.

Lauren Amstutz is media relations director of Get Fit Toledo.

This entry was posted on Friday, March 27th, 2009 at 12:00 am and is filed under Community, Health and Fitness.
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