Published on November 1, 2023
The holidays are almost here. For many people, celebrating includes big family meals, beautiful party spreads and lots of special treats. However, it is possible to have too much of a good thing.
So, how can you enjoy those special occasions without packing on unwanted pounds? The answer is with plenty of support and a little healthy competition.
“Maintain, Don’t Gain” is a six-week weight maintenance challenge, sponsored by the City of Huntsville and Huntsville Hospital Health System. Initially created to help hospital employees stay on track with their health goals, it’s now in its sixth year as part of the City’s Healthy Huntsville initiative.
“Our goal is to help make Huntsville not only one of the best cities in America, but also one of the healthiest,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “By making good choices over the holiday season, we can give ourselves the gift of better health in the new year.”
In 2022, more than 500 people participated. Many maintained their weight, while some lowered it. Huntsville Hospital CEO Jeff Samz is excited to see even more people participate this year.
“We’re glad to work with Mayor Battle and the City of Huntsville in any program that promotes healthier residents,” he said. “Let’s set a record for participation this year in Maintain, Don’t Gain.”
From Nov. 13-19, participants can sign up and weigh-in at one of several “Maintain, Don’t Gain” registration sites. Participants will weigh out at the same location the week of Jan. 2, 2024. Those who weigh in and out will receive a participation prize.
Participating locations and hours
City recreation centers
Brahan Spring Recreation Center, 3770 Ivy Ave.
Cavalry Hill Community Center, 2900 Fairbanks St.
Dr. Richard Showers, Sr. Recreation Center, 4600 Blue Spring Road
Fern Bell Recreation Center, 107-A Sanders Road
Johnson Legacy Center, 6000 Cecil Fain Drive
Mark Russell Recreation Center, 429 Taylor Road
Optimist Recreation Center, 703 Oakwood Ave.
Recreation center weigh-in hours
Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Sunday: 1-5 p.m. (except Cavalry Hill)
Huntsville Hospital wellness centers
Jones Valley Wellness Center, 1345 4 Mile Post Road
Madison Hospital Wellness Center, 8391 U.S. 72
Medical Mall Wellness Center, 1963 South Memorial Parkway
Wellness center weigh-in hours
Monday – Thursday: 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday: 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday: 1-5 p.m.
Healthy Huntsville is a citywide initiative to reduce obesity by promoting healthy eating and active lifestyles. Learn more on Facebook and the Healthy Huntsville web page.