YMCA, AE creating the 'Biggest Winners'

(Photo by Randy M. Cauthron) Biggest Winner participant Dan Mayes (left) works on his cardiovascular development at the Spencer Family YMCA as his personal trainer, Jared Fouts, a Buena Vista College student. [Order this photo]

Beginning at the start of 2009, a group of six local residents volunteered to take part in the Biggest Winner program, hosted by the Spencer Family YMCA in conjunction with the Spencer Hospital's Athletic Enhancement this year.

This Biggest Winner year's participants, working with the various trainers include: Hugh and Elizabeth Lively, Brenda Moranville, Shanna Johnson, Dan Mayes and Dave Kimbell. Members of the Biggest Winner group have been coming throughout the work week for individual structured, training sessions for three weeks.

A former Biggest Winner participant, Daily Reporter Managing Editor Randy M. Cauthron discussed the program, free to those taking part, with Spencer Family YMCA Senior Director Megan Whitaker.

How did the Biggest Winner program come about?

The biggest winner was idea for our January health and fitness promotion that we came up with three years ago based loosely on the "Biggest Loser" television show.

(Photo by Randy M. Cauthron) Dave Kimbell uses a more traditional approach to his cardio workout, alternating between running laps and short walks on the YMCA indoor track to get his heart rate up. Then he turns his attention to some "old school" stair work. [Click to enlarge] [Order this photo]

How has the program changed over the three year since it began?

We started our first year off working with about 26 people. Since that time we have downsized a bit too really give some individual attention and we have also partnered with Athletic Enhancement.

How did the hospital become involved?

The YMCA has worked with Spencer Hospital and Athletic Enhancement on many program and promotions throughout the years. We currently have a joint membership option with AE so we decided to utilize each others facilities and expertise.

What added value has the hospital involvement given to the program?

AE has added the skill level of exercise specialists and also nutritional counseling by a licensed dietitian.

(Photo by Randy M. Cauthron) [Click to enlarge] [Order this photo]

Who runs the program from a planning standpoint, and who is helping them to implement it?

I and Sara Morrow plan and run the program. Every year we utilize the skills of exercise science interns from Buena Vista University. This year the gentlemen helping us are Brett Geelan and Jared Fouts; and also the boys from AE Jason Triewieler and Tim Birkey.

How many participants do you guys have this year and how does that compare to past numbers?

This year we have six participants. In years past we have had 26-12.

What are the areas you focus on over the course of the one month program?

We focus on lifestyle change, cardiovascular training, strength training, nutrition, and emotional well being.

(Photo by Randy M. Cauthron) Trainer Brett Geelan encourages some Dave Kimbell as he pushes himself on the crunch machine. [Click to enlarge] [Order this photo]

What are some of the results you've seen in past years?

Huge weight loss up to 40 pounds by last year's winner. Also many of the participants have changed their lifestyles permanently. Become 10k runners, stopped smoking, and continued to work out at the YMCA for example.

How is this year's group doing so far?

This year's group is very motivated and making great progress.

(Photo by Randy M. Cauthron) Dan Mayes breaks out in a sweat as he pumps some iron. [Click to enlarge] [Order this photo]

You have been kicking this off at the start of each New Year, what does somebody have to do if they want to get involved next year?

We begin to advertise for participants in December. We just ask that those individuals interested write a short paragraph outlining why we should choose them to participate. This program is for member's, non-members and individuals of any age.

Making a commitment to getting fit and healthy can begin anytime, what should somebody who wants to start their own health and fitness regiment, but might need a little help with setting up a realistic program?

Stop by the YMCA or give myself a call and we will present you with seven-day membership. Our trainers will get you started on a cardio and strength training program appropriate for you needs and fitness level.