HAWC offers new health program for the holidays Published Oct. 17, 2011 By Stefan Bocchino 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. -- Air Force Materiel Command will start a holiday challenge called 'Freeze the Gain' Oct. 11 to help people avoid the weight gain and stress that can come with the holiday season. The program is open to active-duty and AFMC appropriated-fund civilians. On Oct. 11, people can start enrolling online at www.afmcwellness.com. The program consists of an official weigh-in from Nov. 2 to 11. Then take two FTG classes between Nov. 14 and Jan. 3. Finally weigh-out between Jan 4 and 13. People who have gained no more than two pounds from the initial weigh-in will receive prizes. "We will be offering two classes," said Lisa Roof, 377th Aerospace Medicine Squadron civilian health promotion coordinator. "The classes are 'Stress Management' and 'Lose your Excuse.' The 'Stress Management' class will help you learn to identify and to manage stress, while the 'Lose your Excuse' class will help you set your nutrition and weight goals." Classes will be available in the morning and evening. All events will be at the Health and Wellness Center, however classes can also be held at units across the base. "Some research shows that people can gain up to five to seven pounds over the holidays," said Roof. "Not only are people eating more, they are also exercising less. When they enroll in the program, we'll do a health-risk appraisal, they'll get an idea of where they stand." Participants will get the book, "Eat Right for Life", if they weigh-out within two pounds of their starting weight. "The reason for taking this challenge is that when they learn some basic skills, it can be motivating and empowering," said Roof. "They learn how just a little behavior change can help prevent weight gain and minimize stress. It raises their awareness and gives them some tools to use." For more information call Lisa Roof at 853-0637 or lisa.roof@kirtland.af.mil.