Michelle Bridges strode into Tamworth on a mission on Tuesday, launching the nation's first geographically designed health program.
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The former Biggest Loser trainer chose Tamworth as a base to launch her New England 12 Week Body Transformation program (12WBT), because of the region's bulging statistics regarding obesity and poor lifestyle choices.
Recent studies have named West Tamworth as the fattest suburb in Australia, with 80 per cent of Tamworth residents deemed overweight.
We also boast the third-highest rate of premature death from heart and lung disease, and the second-highest number of smokers per capita in the state.
"I am incredibly passionate about making health and fitness support more accessible, and achievable for all Australians, particularly those living in regional and remote towns," she said.
"This is certainly not just about the numbers on the scales, it is about enriching everyday lives on a much deeper level - mental health plays a crucial part in this, particularly when times are tough."
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Mayor Col Murray welcomed Ms Bridges and the program to town, particularly applauding the fact the program has partnered with local business Rural Fit, which will host weekly sessions for members of 12WBT.
Rural Fit's Sarah Onus was excited to see residents given another pathway to a healthier lifestyle.
"For 10 years our team has been supporting rural and remote communities in using exercise as medicine for both mental and physical health," she said.
"We are excited to be supporting 12WBT in ensuring that all community members can safely maximise their health outcomes regardless of injury, illness or health condition."
Tamworth council worker Adrian Cameron was one of the first locals to sign up.
He hopes he has the exercise aspect covered but is looking forward to learning more about portion sizes and meal preparation, which comes as part of the program.
"I've been going to Rural Fit for about 12 months for general fitness, and they mentioned that this program was starting," he said.
"I jumped at it - I'm not going too bad with the fitness now, but I would like to know more about meal choices, portion size, and what I should and shouldn't be eating, and maybe dropping a few weekend beers."
The New England 12WBT program starts on September 16, at a "significantly reduced price" from the regular program. Registrations available online.
