Weight loss, smoking cessation programs available locally

With 2015 winding down, the time has come for many to make New Year’s resolutions.

One of the most popular is the effort to lose weight, and there are many options available in the region to accomplish that goal.

 

Hitting the gym

Tri-State Rehab, located on South Third Street in Ironton, sees a surge of new membership at the first of the year, said gym assistant John France.

“You’d be hard pressed to find a gym that doesn’t get new members at New Year’s,” he said. “Some last, and some don’t.”

France said the gym offers several membership options, from monthly to three, six and twelve-month package deals. Discounts are available for seniors, military and corporate groups.

He said they have a personal trainer on staff and offer group fitness classes, as well as a six-to eight-week crossfit program.

In addition to those making New Year’s resolutions, the gym sees a boost from cold weather, France said.

“People go out when it’s nice outside,” he said. “We see more in here in winter than summer.”

Elite Rehab and Fitness, located on Park Avenue, also sees an increase in members in early January.

Ashton McMackin, a fitness tech at the gym, said they are open six days a week.

“We offer personal training and membership discounts,” she said.

 

Comprehensive weight loss

For those seeking additional help, Horizon Weight Loss in Ashland is an option.

The walk-in service is one of four locations throughout Kentucky.

David Thomas said they offer a comprehensive plan.

“It involves diet, exercise and medication to control appetite,” he said.

Thomas said the key is to keep your metabolism rate up.

“If you start losing weight, your metabolism slows down and you lose muscle mass,” he said.

Thomas said a low carb diet is emphasized, particularly for women with gestational diabetes, polycystic ovaries or in menopause.

He said men lose weight faster than women, due to higher metabolism rates.

Thomas said it is important to look at long-term goals.

“You didn’t put this weight on overnight, and it’s not going to come off overnight,” he said.

He suggested it’s good to have someone involved to keep you accountable, recommending exercise partners or for couples to participate together.

Thomas said the service is based on an individual’s needs.

“They come in, we talk to them, look at their medical history and come up with a plan,” he said. “If something else comes up, we can tweak it.”

 

Smoking cessation

Another popular goal people have for the New Year is a plan to stop smoking.

Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital in Ashland offers a smoking cessation program, with the next one set to begin on Jan. 11.

Kevin Compton, the communications and advocacy specialist for the hospital, said the program runs frequently.

“It runs for 12 weeks and uses the Cooper/Clayton method,” he said.

Cooper/Clayton is a popular comprehensive behavioral program, which emphasizes education, skills training and social support.

“We invite family members to attend,” Compton said. “There is counseling, in addition to nicotine replacement therapy.”

He said the program is free of charge, except for the cost of nicotine replacement products.

“No matter how long you’ve smoked, quitting can add years to your life and improve the quality of health,” he said. “It’s never too late to quit.”

Those interested in the program can call 606 833-CARE or go to www.olbh.com.