STEP ONE: Optimize with Nutrition and Exercise
A Nutrition and Fitness Initiative
For
Hamilton County

The Step ONE Initiative is a county-wide effort to address the problem of obesity in our community and promote physical fitness and healthy lifestyles. The Hamilton County Health Department has partnered with the Mayor of Hamilton County, and the Hamilton County Regional Health Council to launch this initiative. Other agencies, organizations, churches, as well as area hospitals, schools, and physicians have become partners in this effort. The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and other area colleges and universities are also playing active roles. This program seeks to counter the obesity trend among all citizens – including youth who are leading inactive lifestyles and experiencing a growing rate of type II diabetes, and the elderly, who are experiencing an increase in the prevalence of arthritis that is thought to be influenced by the sedentary lifestyles of our senior citizens.

Step One will serve all citizens in an effort to improve nutritional practices and physical activity. The organizers of the initiative have formed a Steering Committee to provide input into the planning process and to oversee the initiative. This group consist of approximately 60 persons representing a number of area business, the Chamber of Commerce, all of the municipalities in Hamilton County, the Hamilton County School System, local hospitals, health providers, and healthcare organizations, community organizations, and lay persons. Surveys distributed to restaurants, faith-based groups and participants enjoying Riverbend Festival have allowed us to gather info pertaining to current practices dealing with health and fitness. Workgroups have been formed to develop a braod array of strategies and interventions to increase movement and nurtitional standards for residents, businesses, schools and organizations. Step ONE will also coordinate efforts among all agencies in Hamilton County involved in health and wellness. We can be more efficient and effective working together towards our shared goal of a happier and healthier community.

This awareness and educational health promotion program will readily repay its cost in the reduced future medical expenses of participants. The Step ONE program will initiate a long-term process in the community that is expected to result in healthy lifestyle changes through greater involvement in better nutritional practices and more exercise and fitness activities.