So why is this contest so simple!

The best wellness programs reach only a small percentage of the population. They attract the individuals who want to make large lifestyle changes. To change a population health you first have to engage a large number of them. Dee Edington of the University of Michigan estimates that an effective wellness program needs to involve 70% o the population..

Every year most people gain on average 5 pounds. This program with its simple rule not to gain one more pound hopes to attract a large number of participants to do very little in terms of lifestyle change. But, and this is the key, if 70% participate we will have a greater impact on the total health of the population than dramatically changing the health of only a few with more demanding programs.

Two charts illustrate the need for the program. The first illustrates the normal progression of weight gain. From our late 20's to our 60's, the curve is step. We gain weight every year. Our goal is to flatten the curve.

The second chart shows the relationship between obesity and mortality risk. Obesity is the second leading cause of preventable death in America accounting for 300,000 premature deaths a year. Click here if you want to know your Body Mass Index