Finding Fun in a Healthy Lifestyle
John Shortt was determined to make healthy changes to his lifestyle and found a path forward with the help of the MOVE! team at the White River Junction VA Medical Center in Vermont.
A Fresh Start
John first began his efforts to lose weight several years ago. While he had signed up for a program to guide him, he still looked for new options to make greater progress. His VA health care team recommended that he try the MOVE! Weight Management Program for Veterans where he could participate alongside other Veterans in a group setting. Pursuing similar goals for their health and their weight they could learn from each other and provide camaraderie and support as well.
Try [MOVE!]. It’s a fun and easy way to lose weight.
John Shortt
Having Fun With It
For John, part of the appeal of MOVE! was that it was an "informal and fun" experience. The group environment helped him consider what changes and habits might be beneficial in his own case. MOVE! helps Veterans understand how small, healthy lifestyle changes incorporated gradually over time can lead to lasting changes that improve health and quality of life. John learned that making thoughtful choices about portions and types of foods and beverages he consumed, combined with increasing his physical activity through everyday activities, gave him the edge he needed to reach his goal of better health. Using the MOVE! Food and Physical Activity Log to track and monitor his progress helped John maintain his new habits.
Still Pushing Forward
Since starting MOVE!, John has realized several health benefits. With his 20-pound weight loss, his clothes fit better and he has more energy for everyday activities. John is grateful for the support of his MOVE! team and Veterans on their own journeys as well as the ongoing encouragement of his wife. He plans to maintain his progress by eating wisely and adding more physical activity sharing that "hiking for fun" is high on his list!
