American Obesity Rate Up in 2014

 This year there has been a bigger push than ever before for Americans to get out and get active.

However, it seems as though these efforts are not working. Data recently indicated that there has been an increase in obesity this past year. The United Health Foundation stated that a quarter of people interviewed in 2014 reported no physical activity in the past 30 days.

"More states now more then ever are obese, there’s I think about 20 states that have an obesity rate over 30%. And there’s about 42 states that are above 25," said Brook Smith, Health and Special Populations Coordinator for the Muskingum Recreation Center.

Obesity is tied to diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. These are life threatening diseases that should be taken very seriously, so it is extremely important to be proactive and remain active.

"We have group exercise programs, we have a swimming pool, we have a gymnasium, we have a 10,000 sq ft. fitness floor, and we have some new programs coming up in January. We have a team challenge in January that’s a weightless challenge," said Smith.

Whatever weight loss program you decided to do it is important to switch up your routine. Keeping your workout fun and exciting will keep you coming back to the gym, and help you keep off those pesky pounds.