History of the Metro Fitness Challenge

In a world of fast food and high fat diets, obesity has become a problem across the nation, including here in Oklahoma. In 2006, Oklahoma was ranked the 13th heaviest state in the country.

Tuesday, February 26th 2008, 5:02 pm

By: News 9


In a world of fast food and high fat diets, obesity has become a problem across the nation, including here in Oklahoma.  In 2006, Oklahoma was ranked the 13th heaviest state in the country. In an effort to improve the health of Oklahomans NEWS 9 began the Metro Fitness Challenge. 

The Metro Fitness Challenge pits two families against each other in the battle of the bulge. Couples from around the Metro area submit essays on why they wish to participate in the challenge. They consult with a registered dietitian, a physician and a personal trainer to formulate specific food and weight loss goals for each person. We also tackle important health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes in an effort to educate the viewers on these topics.

The Metro Fitness Challenge is sponsored by Integris Health and Pacer Fitness.  In the first two years of the contest a total of 300 pounds were shed.  In 2006 the couples lost 96 and 63 pounds, in 2007 the losses were 69 pounds and 72 pounds.  Starting Wednesday, February 27, two new couples will take the Metro Fitness Challenge.  Kevin and April McCurdy of Harrah, and Josua and Christyn Byler of Yukon will kick off their exercise and nutrition programs in an effort to win $2,000 and a new exercise bike from Fitness Equipment World that will help them continue their new weight loss regime. 

But the prizes are not what's fueling these couples attempt to lose weight. The Bylers have dreams of beginning a family and would like to be in better shape before becoming parents.  The Bylers are also taking on this challenge to start living a healthier and happier lifestyle.

Kevin and April McCurdy also have dreams of beginning a family and know a healthier lifestyle would enable them to do this; Kevin has diabetes, and April will begin a future in healthcare and they feel they will benefit from living a healthier lifestyle.

Follow the Bylers and the McCurdys through the Metro Fitness Challenge Wednesdays on News9 This Morning or here on News9.com

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