VA MOVE! Program Helps Veterans Meet New Year’s Fitness Resolutions

(KNSI) – Former military members are busy trying to meet their New Year’s resolutions and the St. Cloud VA’s MOVE! program plays a big part in that.

Dietitian Anne Voigt says she focuses on improving overall health, which is more than just shedding pounds. “When we get that ball rolling, whether it’s the scale moving or those non-scale victories, if they have less joint pain, if they’re able to move better…All of those things can be really helpful.”

Voigt says exercise is a great start, but eating well is required, too, if you want to make progress. She notes recent research says protein is important. Voigt says she often has to work with clients on meal timing. Intermittent fasting often leads to hunger late in the day. Those urges tend to win out against keeping to your plan.

Voigt says weight loss and better fitness seem intimidating, but they don’t have to be. She recommends breaking up your final goal into manageable portions.

“I think just getting in the door is that first step. So, that’s the challenge, is coming to see us. We’re not scary, I promise. We want to help you. We want to meet you where you’re at. If that’s ready to make changes, maybe it’s just to learn a little bit more about nutrition. Or if you really want to get started and you’re really motivated to get going on things. We’ll help you figure out what that looks like.”

MOVE! classes are available online or in-person and last for 12 weeks.

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