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OSU sees growth in Weight Watchers at Work program

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Oklahoma State University employees are getting the chance to get healthy at work.

In August 2014, OSU-Stillwater began offering the Weight Watchers at Work program as part of its efforts to help employees get healthy. The 17-weeklong program works with OSU-STW employees to provide them the resources they need to lose weight. 

Participants attend weekly meetings held over their lunch hour. The 45-minute meetings include a weigh-in, discussion and encouragement, and a weekly homework assignment. For Leslie McClurg, the program couldn’t have come at a better time.

“I was looking to get healthy, and the opportunity to have a support group to talk and work with was perfect,” McClurg said.

In addition to the weekly meetings, participants have access to countless online resources, including recipes, online coaches and other tips to maintain a healthy weight.

The program has seen significant growth since it began. The first series had 27 participants and the third and fourth series, which are running simultaneously, have 93 participants. Rindy Larue, who coordinates the program, isn’t surprised by the growth. 

“I think there has always been an interest and talk about getting the program here at OSU,” Larue said. “We started with a trial program to work out the kinks, but since then the groups continue to grow.” 

Because of its commitment to maintaining wellness, OSU subsidizes the cost of the program so more employees can get involved.  

“We just reached out to Weight Watchers to see what all was required, and my director determined we had the funds to subsidize part of the cost for members,” Larue said. “For the series, which lasts 17 weeks, the cost is $186 per participant. OSU pays $100 on the employees’ behalf, which brings the cost down to about $5 per week.” 

Because of the program, McClurg has started to make healthier choices outside of work. She now works out with friends and a trainer three times a week, and uses the online resources to keep her on track. 

The 3rd and 4th meeting groups have lost over 800 pounds, and the program has no intention of slowing down. Registration is currently open for the next series, and Larue encourages those interested to sign-up and start their own weight loss journey. 

Those interested in signing up can contact Rindy Larue at rindy.larue@okstate.edu

Story by Catherine Wilson

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