The Tuscarawas County YMCA will host an orientation and meet the team kick off Jan. 11, 2012, at 6 p.m., for Winter Meltdown, A Weight Loss Challenge. The orientation will be held for YMCA members at the Y and will give teams a chance to meet the trainers, initial weigh-in and create a name, and size up the competition.

As part of this comprehensive program, all participants will work out weekly with a personal trainer, participate in weekly nutrition sessions, and receive workout plans, mid-week check-ins and weekly weigh-ins. There will also be two team fitness challenges, on Feb. 8 and March 14. Prizes will be awarded to the team who loses the most percentage of weight.

With more than 135 million Americans struggling with weight issues, obesity has become one of the nation’s top health problems, increasing the risk of preventable illnesses, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer.

A study in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that family and friends tend to gain, and lose, weight together. During the 10-week challenge, husbands and wives worked out together and friends kept friends motivated. The Y’s Winter Meltdown, A Weight Loss Challenge, is designed to help members stick to their fitness goals by encouraging them to eat healthier and be more active as part of a team. Program limited to Tuscarawas County YMCA or Twin City YMCA members only. Program costs are available online at http://www.tuscymca.org.

For more information, call the Y at 330-364-5511 or email brandi@tuscymca.org