Join the Avera McKennan Community Weight Loss Challenge

SIOUX FALLS (May 1, 2008) - If you've been putting off your resolutions to lose a few pounds, maybe all you need is a challenge. The Avera McKennan Community Weight Loss Challenge kicks off Saturday, May 17, at 10 a.m. at Falls Park. Speaker will be Amy Hildreth from NBC's Biggest Loser Season 3, who will lead participants in a warm-up and share her weight loss journey.

The Weight Loss Challenge will be similar to NBC's Biggest Loser, in that teams of two to eight people will compete in losing the highest percentage of their weight. Teams can be couples, coworkers, neighbors, friends or family members; age 18 or older. The challenge continues for 12 weeks, ending in the month of August. Participation is free of charge, with prizes for the most weight loss.

Challenge rules, forms for team registration and weight loss, and a weekly team leader board will be available at www.AveraMcKennanChallenge.org. The site will show percentages of team weight loss week to week, as well as helpful information on fitness, nutrition, peer activities, and even mental health aspects of the emotional side of eating. Also through this site, teams can stay informed about seminars or events which might reinforce healthy life choices, and free community resources such as the Sioux Falls Parks system.

For more information, or to sign up for the Avera McKennan Community Weight Loss Challenge, please visit www.AveraMcKennanChallenge.org.