Mark Woods Advocates for Healthy Habits from an Early Age
By Amy H. Elizer, Extension Specialist; University of Tennessee Extension
Mark Woods, pastor of Bolivar’s Church of God, took up bicycling several years ago and lost 40 pounds over time. Since he was an @Bemorehardeman Facebook video log (VLOG) interviewee, an injury side-lined him for a time but he plans to return to his favorite activity. He also still advocates for starting healthy habits at an early age.
H2O: When we interviewed you earlier, you mentioned that if people would make the healthy habits sooner, that making change would be easier for them. Do you feel this way?
MW: It is advantageous to learn healthy habits early in our lives to reduce the risks of developing challenges to our health that can come from living sedentary lives. The chance of developing obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are just a few of illnesses that can be reduced by controlling diet and exercising. Much of our society has become ingrained in virtual lifestyles. Young people need to find a balance of physical activity that helps develop healthy habits. There also needs to be a reduction in the consumption of unhealthy foods and snacks, and people of all ages need to follow balanced nutritional diets.
H2O: Have you seen an increase in your congregation, family, or community members making those changes?
MW: I am aware of several people working to develop healthier lifestyles, but there is still more progress to make including my own regimen.
H2O: What encouragement or motivation do you or would you offer someone considering these lifestyle changes? (more)
MW: At the height of my recent physical fitness endeavor, my physical, mental, and emotional condition were better than it had been in years. My determination was diminished by busyness and my schedule complicated by issues beyond my control, but I am reaching a point that I can overcome some of the complexities and I am determined to make time to return to my fitness program.
H2O: What would be your 30 second elevator pitch to a person who is willing to make lifestyle changes to be “heart healthy”? Please share your ups and downs since we last spoke about your journey.
MW: Review your lifestyle, diet, activities, habits, and attitudes and be prepared to make changes. Stop doing the things that are detrimental to your health – stop smoking, eliminate poor diets, reduce or stop alcohol consumption, and get moving. Consult with a physician before you begin and allow them to help you with making the changes at a pace that is healthy and safe for you. Don’t wait until it is too late!
For more inspiration from Mr. Woods’ and other VLOG interviewees go to tiny.utk.edu/H2Ovideos. Hardeman Healthy Outreach is funded by the CDC’s High Obesity Program (HOP) through The University of Tennessee Extension to improve access to food and physical activity opportunities throughout Hardeman County.
Read more local news by clicking here.
Stay informed on what’s happening in Hardeman County by subscribing to Hatchie Press e-mail updates.
Do you have community news you’d like to share? E-mail us at news@hatchiepress.com.
