Tennessee's Commissioner of Health. Dr. Kenneth Robinson, has challenged each county to address the major health concerns of their county. The Claiborne County Health Council has taken the commissioner's challenge. Claiborne Shapes Up! is a fitness initiative to promote better health through exercise and nutrition.
During the next six months, Claiborne Shapes Up! will offer participants a newsletter that will include exercise tips, nutrition information and helpful hints for a healthier lifestyle. Special events, programs and contest will be held to help and encourage the community members as they strive to Improve their health.
Teams of eight will compete to see who can log the most miles walking in their community, the team to log the most miles across America will win. The kickoff for Claiborne County is Monday, Sept. 19, at 6 p.m. at Claiborne High School.
"Teams will keep track of their miles, which will be posted in the Extension office and with the team captain," said Carol Brandon, Claiborne County Extension Agent.
Many people are unaware of the positive benefits of exercise. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the number one problem in the United States. The risk of heart disease could be significantly reduced by regular exercise.
Not only does regular exercise help relieve stress and anxiety, "physically active people outlive inactive people." "Participating in Claiborne Shapes Up! is not only a great way to get involved with our community, it's a healthy habit," Brandon stated.
To participate in Claiborne Shapes Up!, first get a team of eight walkers together. Choose a team captain and name your team. Fill out a registration form available at the Claiborne County Extension Office, Courthouse Annex, Tazewell. A $20 registration fee per team will be charged to help defray expenses for newsletters, etc.
"Competition kicks off at Claiborne High School, Monday, Sept. 19th, at 6 p.m.," Brandon said.
For more information, call the extension office at (423) 626-3742.






