Hoping to help people become healthier individuals, Glenville State College is conducting its own version of a hit television show. The GSC Office of Student Life is sponsoring ‘The Biggest Loser Program.’ All GSC faculty, staff, students, and local residents are encouraged to participate. The program is designed to assist people in losing weight and developing a healthier lifestyle by addressing common psychological, nutritional, and fitness issues that can plague weight loss efforts. GSC’s ‘Biggest Loser Program’ will run from February 1st through April 30th.

“Mental health and physical health go hand in hand, improving your physical health can help maximize your mental health and learning potential. West Virginia has an alarming number of obese people, so we thought this would be a good way for the college and the community to work together to become healthier,” said Glenville State College Dean of Student Affairs Jerry Burkhammer.

‘The Biggest Loser Program’ participants will receive plenty of support to help them with their goal of losing weight and becoming healthier.

GSC Fitness Center Coordinator Shantelle Harkleroad will provide assistance with exercise programs including weight training, aerobics, walking, and Zumba. Each participant will have his or her own chart for weekly weigh-ins and statistics such as body fat percentage, muscle mass, body water percentage, bone mass, metabolic age, daily caloric intake needs, and visceral fat readings. Charts will be kept in strict confidentiality with the fitness coordinator.

Campus Nurse Julia Barr will provide helpful information about eating habits, nutrition, diet, restaurant tricks, how to kill cravings, and the benefits of knowing your body.

GSC Counselor Tim Underwood will be on board to address issues such as stress and comfort eating, oral fixation, and the importance of a healthy mental attitude.

‘The Biggest Loser Program’ participants will be split into two evenly matched teams, a blue team and a white team, competing for both team and individual awards and prizes. To help cover the cost of awards and prizes, there will be a $10 registration fee for all participants.

To register or for more information, contact the Glenville State College Fitness Center at (304) 462-6440.