Frequently Asked Questions?
 

1.                  What’s the MyPyramid.gov Wellness Challenge?

As your benefits office, we are committed to improving the health of all employees. To help employees establish and meet their goals for improved health, we are offering the MyPyramid.gov Wellness Challenge, which is a health improvement program designed to help you learn about healthy food choices, physical activities, and stress relievers that can reduce your risk for numerous chronic diseases. Our focus is on a healthful lifestyle. Its fun, it’s free, and it’s a great start toward a healthier lifestyle for you and your family. The goal of the Wellness Challenge is to turn simple lifestyle changes into lifelong, healthy habits. All the information you need to get started is listed below. Be sure to check the Human Resources website each week to receive the most up-to-date information on activities and events that you can take advantage of while participating in the Wellness Challenge. The path to good health isn't the same for everyone and yours may change over time. To travel down your personal path, take small steps that are right for you, one at a time. Every step adds up, so you’ll reach your health goals before you know it. The steps, tips and information in this guide can start you down your path to good health.

2.                  How much will it cost me to participate in the MyPyramid.gov Wellness Challenge?

It’s FREE! The program is voluntary.

3.                  Are incentives available through the MyPyramid.gov Wellness Challenge?

As a participant, you are eligible to receive wellness incentives. On a monthly basis the Wellness Activity Logs will be totaled. At that time a participant may redeem his/her points for incentive prizes. Points left over will be carried to the next month. Drawings for various prizes also will be held periodically with all colleagues enrolled in the Wellness Revolution program being automatically eligible.

4.                  Is the MyPyramid.gov Wellness Challenge for me?

Have you been thinking about making some changes in your lifestyle? Maybe your doctor, your spouse, or a friend has suggested you could take better care of yourself. You probably know what to do to be healthy, but knowing what to do is not the same as knowing how to do it successfully. Many people don’t know how to get started on a program to improve their health. Now there is a program to help you acquire and practice the lifestyle skills you already know are important. This will help you go beyond knowing to doing.

5.                  What do I get?

You will receive information on nutrition, exercise, stress management, health related seminars, weight management, and, if applicable, smoking cessation. Your MyPyramid.gov Wellness Challenge includes:

·        MyPyramid Plan - Type in your age and select your gender and activity level to get an estimate of your daily calorie needs and how much food you should eat from each MyPyramid food group.

·        MyPyramid Tracker - Type in the foods you eat and your physical activity level to receive personal information on your diet quality and physical activity status.

·        Inside MyPyramid - Look here for in-depth information about physical activity and the MyPyramid food groups, including what’s found in each group, recommended amounts and easy tips for following MyPyramid.

·        Tips and Resources - Check this area for tips and resources about food and physical activity and a worksheet to track what you’re eating.

6.                  How do I get started in the program?

1.      Decide which intensity of participation is right for you and accumulate points utilizing a variety of activities.

2.      Complete a registration form.

3.      Be ready to have fun and learn new ways to improve your health.

4.      Track your activities each week for 6-months.

5.      Complete the activities listed for participation and calculate your points.

6.      Finally, turn in your Wellness & Activity log at the monthly meetings for prizes

7.                  How much time is required?

If you ask most people why they don’t exercise, eat healthier, or manage stress better, they’ll say they’re too busy. We know that time is a barrier, so we’ve designed MyPyramid.gov Wellness Challenge to be especially time efficient. You set the pace and the level of involvement.

8.                  Will MyPyramid.gov Wellness Challenge work for me?

When it comes to health, weight, and fitness, most people make the mistake of looking for a “quick fix.” Let us assure you, there is no quick fix. MyPyramid.gov is for people who are seeking long-term solutions to their health and lifestyle concerns. MyPyramid.gov incorporates and promotes these key factors to help ensure your long-term success. Internal motivation – You must attempt a change because you want to – not because someone else says you should. Readiness – If you are just starting to think about making a change, your needs are different from someone who is ready to take action. We don’t force changes that you’re not ready to make. Realistic goal setting – Many people are unsuccessful because their goals are unrealistic. You will set realistic goals based on the intensity and involvement you desire.  Small slips are sure to happen. We view them as opportunities to learn and move forward.

9.                  What will happen if I miss the monthly meetings?

You may submit your points to the Human Resources Office prior to the day of the meeting if you want to be considered for the incentives.

10.             When will I get my incentives?

11.             What if I already participate in a weight loss program?

The MyPyramid.gov Wellness Challenge does not focus solely on weight loss. It is not a “quick fix” program. You may be credited points based on the program and our rules.

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