Efforts under way at Lynn YMCA to get U.S. in shape

LYNN – Americans are fatter and more out-of-shape than ever. It’s not a healthy situation.That’s why the Greater Lynn YMCA is participating in America on the Move Week, starting Sept. 22 and continuing through Sept. 29. It’s all about getting off the couch, moving your muscles and not chomping down on that second doughnut.Although plenty of activities are planned at the YMCA, a major part of the solution for avoiding weight gain can be had without going to the gym. Energy balance is the key. Research shows that achieving energy balance is one of the most effective paths toward healthy weight management.According to Lynn YMCA fitness director Sharon Dobbyn, extra pounds can be kept off by adding just 2,000 extra steps per day and eating 100 fewer calories. For those who work in high-rise office buildings, this weight-stabilization strategy can translate to something as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, and using one teaspoon of sugar in your coffee instead of two.”By taking these extra steps and cutting your intake by only 100 calories, that’s enough to help most Americans prevent annual weight gain,” said Dobbyn. “These small, consistent changes can add up to big rewards over time, including improved health and quality of life.”Last year, over 850,000 people from 1,100 YMCAs nationwide helped others embrace the small-steps movement and take the equivalent of 9.3 million steps n equivalent to circling Earth 187 times.The Lynn YMCA will offer opportunities for individuals, families and community groups to participate in a series of events that emphasize energy balance. Dobbyn describes energy balance as the difference between the amount of calories eaten and the amount burned through physical activity. Zero difference means zero weight gain.The planned events at the YMCA include a hike through the Lynn Woods Reservation and a scavenger hunt. The 2.5-mile woods hike steps off on Saturday, Sept. 22 at 10 a.m. Hikers will assemble at the Great Woods Road entrance off Lynnfield Street. The hike rain date is Sunday, Sept. 23 at the same time.Starting on Monday, Sept. 24 the YMCA hosts a free weeklong membership. “It’s a chance for people who aren’t members to come in and see what we have to offer,” said YMCA Branch Director Audrey Jimenez. “Everything will be open to them so that they can try it out.”Tuesday, Sept. 25 brings the Hula Hoop Contest from 1-2 p.m., while on Wednesday, Sept. 26 youth can take part in the scavenger hunt from 3-4 p.m. Prizes will be given out after each of these activities.Friday, Sept. 28 is Spin Day at the YMCA. “If you haven’t tried spinning yet, here’s your chance,” said Dobbyn, noting that beginner classes require a sign-up 24 hours in advance. “And don’t forget to bring water.”Spin class times are 10:30-11 a.m., 11:15-11:45 a.m., 12:15-1 p.m., and 3:30-4 p.m.The America on the Move Foundation is a national, non-profit organization. Its mission is to improve health and quality of life through sensible eating and active living. To achieve this, scientists and non-scientists are brought together from multiple disciplines to find ways to empower individuals to take control of their lives by making and sustaining small, measurable changes to their daily eating and activity routines. Hence, the organization touts the easy-to-implement 2,000 more steps and 100 less calories daily program.For more information about the Lynn YMCA and activities related to America on the Move Week, go online to www.LynnYMCA.org or call 781-581-3105, ext. 33.