Biggest Loser Rudy Pauls Coming to RI for Shape Up RI Kick-Off
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Thinking it’s time to be your best self? State residents are invited to the Shape Up RI 2011 competition kickoff event at Rhode Island College a week from today. The event’s opening ceremony will feature a special appearance by Rudy Pauls, a New England native who lost 234 pounds while participating in the NBC show “The Biggest Loser.” Rhode Island Lt. Governor and honorary co-chair,Elizabeth Roberts, will also address participants along with Brown University alum, Rajiv Kumar, Founder and Chairman of the program, will also speak.
One Step at a Time
Energizing exercise demonstrations, a healthy eating display from Johnson & Wales University, drawings for prizes including a bike, and free giveaways from Whole Foods Markets will mark the kick-off, and NBC Channel 10 Healthcare Reporter Barbara Morse Silva will be presented with Shape Up RI's Minority Award for Health Advocacy for leadership in promoting good nutrition, healthier lifestyles, and well-being of the entire community. “Each year, our opening ceremony is a fun and exciting way for Rhode Islanders to renew their commitment of improving their attitudes and behaviors toward health,” says Rajiv Kumar, Founder and Chairman of Shape Up RI. “Our intention is to build community spirit and instill motivation in participants as they start the next twelve-week challenge.”
The structure of Shape Up RI, which has received generous support from major sponsor Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Rhode Island, is simple.
Participants form teams with friends, co-workers, and/or family members. Team members receive a digital pedometer, logbook, and access to a robust online data tracking system, through which they can set goals, track their progress, communicate with team members, and compare their results with other participants across the state.GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST
How it Works
All participants who join the competition (February 7 through May 1) and track their progress each week during the competition will be entered into a random drawing to win a Whole Foods Market $5,000 grocery giveaway. In addition, all participants who complete weekly health challenges will have the opportunity to win prizes including bikes, kayaks, and Nintendo Wii Fit gaming consoles. Participants also receive support via e-newsletters with useful health tips, inspiration, and updates about hundreds of free Shape Up RI wellness events that will take place throughout the state.
Participants can sign up online at www.shapeupri.org and attend the Shape Up RI kick off on Saturday, February 5 at 10am at RIC’s Roberts Hall Auditorium, 600 Mount Pleasant Avenue in Providence. To learn how to join the Shape Up RI competition or for more information on the opening event, call 421-0608 or email [email protected].
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