My Healthy Heart Challenge

Well, I think I've done it.  Burned the ship, of no return.  I've done the thing that no smart person would have ever thought to do, admitting on TV that I was going to make some changes in my life and try to get a healthy heart (and the rest of the body that surrounds it).  Smart people would have at least gone to the "Biggest Looser" to make money but I had to go into a deal with other Mayors, Council Members and City Managers around the County in Intermountain Health Care's My Healthy Heart Challenge.  I can't tell you how often I've been on TV and seldom people have seen the spot, but on this one, everyone seems to have seen me.  Next time, I decide to make some kind of life changing decision, remind me to do it in private!

As part of the health challenge, I went through a stress test with a cardiologist, met with a dietitian, and did a partial workout with an exercise physiologists to help me understand what I need to do.  I've set a course over the 100 days of the challenge to make some behavioral and activity level changes that I'm hoping to accomplish.  I'm hoping this effort is not just for me but maybe an example to others, especially in my district to make some significant changes in their own lives.  I've really appreciated the effort that my family has made to join me in the effort and we're all trying to help each other make the changes that will be necessary for us all.

I'm planning to take some documented walks (along with a number of undocumented ones) to show people different places to walk in Salt Lake City.  I welcome friends and others to invite me to "go on a walk with them".  As much as I would hope, I know this isn't going to be a perfect effort, I've already experienced some slow starts in the process.  My logs and exercise sessions aren't quite what I want, but I've started.  I'm already benefiting from some changes, and it's only been 10 days.  In my first 10 days, I've lost 12 pounds, but I have a long way to go.

I just want to throw two things out there that might help you.  I've found a very functional tracker that has both web applications and apps for my phone and iPad.  It's www.myfitnesspal.com.  The thought of adding things to my booklet they gave me was very intimidating, but this has been something I can handle.  I've been amazed at how easy it is to find food and the difference in things that I eat.  Homemade stuff saves in a lot of categories!  The other place I would encourage you to track is www.myheartchallenge.com and you can see my progress as well as the other participants.  You will also find some helpful information and recipes and maybe you'll find a video of our walk together!  If nothing else, lets sit down over some apple splices and mozzarella cheese stick snacks!