Obesity is a weighty problem in Callaway County with more than a third of adults classified as obese, according to the Callaway County Health Department. Being overweight is associated with diabetes, heart disease and early death.
A class offered by the Health Department, which begins 9-11 a.m. April 4 and continues the next two Tuesdays, will teach residents about weight loss and the health risks associated with being overweight.
"It's not about dieting, it's lifestyle changes," said Pam Phelps, the Medical Reserve Corps director at the department. "We're trying to help (participants) gear into changes that will be life-long."
The class is offered as part of the Rush Hour Passport series. These free health-related classes, with topics including cholesterol and diabetes, are offered as three-week courses with one two-hour session a week.
Rush Hour participants also get to socialize with others on Facebook and group walks.
"Our Medical Reserve Corps volunteers have taken training so we can offer these classes," Phelps said.
Signing up for Rush Hour involves filling out a questionnaire. Many local churches have designated "travel agents" who help with the process. People can also register directly with the health department by calling 573-642-6881, ext. 248.
Phelps said she plans on taking lessons home from the course.
"I might be the instructor, but I'm one of the pupils too," she said.
Phelps said becoming active does not necessarily mean buying fancy equipment or a gym membership.
"People can exercise as long as they've got a good pair of walking shoes and are willing to walk," she said.
Phelps offered the same advice she gave her own mother, who didn't want to exercise, but used to be active.
"Think about all the things you did 10 years ago,when you were younger that you used to do but have stopped because of technology or lack of time," Phelps said.
It could be time to pick up gardening again, rake the lawn instead of using a leaf blower or start walking short distances instead of driving.
Phelps also suggested taking a page from her granddaughters' book and play Pokémon Go, a creature-catching mobile game that encourages exploring your town on foot or by bike.
"We've allowed ourselves to get into age mindsets and let our health issues define us," Phelps said. "We need to take back control."