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PROVO — Only a few days in, and contestants for Intermountain Healthcare's 100-Day Heart Challenge have their work cut out for them. Bright and early Friday morning, 20 contestants fought their way through a storm only to go headfirst into a fight for better health.
For nine years, Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo has hosted the heart challenge. Here's how it works. Ten participants are selected who in turn pick a partner of their choosing. The challenge kicks off on day one when each participant gets their blood pressure and cholesterol levels taken and body fat, height and weight measured.
With heart disease being the No. 1 killer of men and women in the U.S., the competition is designed to set up each competitor for success far beyond the 100-day challenge. Backed by their own dietitian and personal trainer, each participant has a plan tailored to their needs and interests.
Interventional cardiologist at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center, David Cragun, said, "The main goal here, I think, is to learn new habits and then be consistent with them. It's been exciting seeing the changes and see as they carry that fever and the momentum back into the community and get their friends and family involved too."
These healthy changes will improve overall heart health like lower blood pressure, bad cholesterol levels and delay the possible onset of osteoporosis, heart attack and stroke.
"It really is a lifestyle change, but it starts with small things," Cragun said. "Studies show that our thinking improves and we make better decisions; we feel better and we're able to participate in life better." Jenniffer is a Special Projects Producer who heads up the Your Life Your Health, Zero Fatalities and High 5 initiatives. For questions, feedback or possible story ideas, please email jmichaelson@ksl.com.
