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Daniels Recognized for Efforts to Improve Health of Hoosiers

Press Release

Date: June 8, 2007
Location: Indianapolis, IN
Issues: Health and Health Care

Governor Mitch Daniels received special recognition today from Melissa Johnson, executive director of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, for his work in the area of health promotion and disease prevention. Johnson was in Indianapolis with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) prevention bus tour A Healthier US Starts Here.

During their time in Indiana, HHS officials are highlighting the work of INShape Indiana, created by Daniels in 2005 to encourage Hoosiers to eat better, be more active, and refrain from smoking.

"Changing the behavior of millions of Hoosiers is well worth all of the time and effort that goes into it. This is about helping Hoosiers live longer, better quality lives and collectively as a state bringing down health care costs," said Daniels.

The governor received a special coin from the President's Council for his commitment to improving Indiana's health and fitness.

"This summer INShape Indiana will help Hoosiers get active, eat healthy foods and stop smoking," said Johnson. "INShape has become a model for the rest of the country. Governor Daniels understands it only takes a few small changes to make a big difference."

Earlier this year, Governor Daniels and INShape Indiana launched a 10-week, 10-pound weight loss challenge called "10 in 10." The challenge attracted more than 40,000 participants from all 92 counties. Of those who reported their results, the average weight loss was over 7 pounds, with 32 percent having lost 10 or more pounds.

Building on the success of 10 in 10, next week INShape Indiana will begin a new summer health and fitness program called "SummerFit." Over the next eight weeks, from June 11 to August 3, participants will receive weekly e-mails containing tips for staying fit during the summer months. Participants can track their progress through a point system; for each healthy activity completed they will earn points toward a weekly goal. At the conclusion of SummerFit, participants who submit point totals will be eligible for an INShape Indiana-related prize. There is no cost for the program. Those interested may sign up to participate on the INShape Indiana website at http://www.inshape.in.gov/.


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