12% Solution to Weight Management

September 9 to October 22, 2009

Safely lose up to 5 kg/12lbs. in 44-days!*

The 12% Solution to Weight Management is a global Health Services program that introduces a few key weight management skills and motivation to put them into practice. If you are committed to these skills over the 44 days, this program can help you safely lose 1½ - 5 kg/3-12 lbs* and get you started on a lifestyle of healthier eating and a healthy body weight.

12% is free to employees, retirees, spouses, dependents and contractors, as applicable by location.

Registration is open August 17 - September 18.

This program, is available free of charge to anyone who is ready for the challenge. Start by registering online and viewing a one-hour kick-off presentation or video to learn more and create your 12% Plan.

Benefits of Participation
Program Description
Program Guidelines

What's in it for me?

Better skills for managing weight.
Weekly support e-mails to encourage you to achieve your goals.
Shared experience with colleagues around the world.
No registration fee makes this a win-win for you.

When it comes to developing a healthy lifestyle, you can't do it all in six weeks, but you can get started. That's what the 12% program is…a starting point. It's an opportunity to gain some momentum and experience success, but not be overwhelmed with a larger program or initial commitment.

Health Services will follow the 12% Solution to Weight Management program with a year-long challenge in 2010 to help you master the 12% skills, introduce you to new ones, make it part of your lifestyle and achieve a more sustainable weight loss.

Program Description

During the 44-day period, participants will work on four key areas: exercise, limiting refined carbohydrates (including consuming fruits and vegetables), portion control and water intake. While this is not all that is needed for weight loss, these are evidence-based behaviors that are important for anyone wanting to lose or maintain their body weight.

Participants can choose to focus on one or more behaviors during the program. The goal with 12% is to get started, build confidence and have some success with weight management.

Program Components

When you register for this voluntary, free health promotion program you'll receive:

Weekly e-mail with a short tip, motivation to continue and action to assess your progress.
A simple, optional tracking form to set goals, track your progress and document personal observations as you practice weight loss behaviors.
Throughout the program, participants may receive invitations from Health Services to participate in supportive classes, consultation or other activities to improve your success.

Program Guidelines

To receive the weekly tips and support, you must register as a 12% participant by September 17**
To benefit most from the program, all participants are asked to view a Kick-off Presentation or video
Health Services' expectation is that you make a good faith attempt to participate during the 44 days. Scan the e-mails, try to consistently practice at least one of the key behaviors in your life and monitor your weight.

You may unsubscribe from the program at any time.

Why 12%?

The program is 44 days long - or 12% of the year.
Changing 12% of your lifestyle is more realistic and achievable than attempting a total health makeover.
Making a positive change, even just 12%, in a key health area like body weight can be significant.