It’s not too late to ‘Soar into Shape’ Published Feb. 17, 2012 By Airman 1st Class Derek VanHorn 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The base Health and Wellness Center and Fitness Center are co-sponsoring "Soar into Shape," a nine-week challenge beginning Feb. 27 that allows participants to decide whether to lose or maintain weight. The free program is available to anyone with base access and is structured around a scheduled series of events and incentive-based activities designed to "soar" you into shape, from obstacle course competitions to nutritional and stress reduction classes. A calendar of scheduled events will be provided to each participant. "Soar into Shape is a great program for anyone who wants to improve their physical health," said Jennifer Haugen, 319th Medical Operations Squadron Health and Wellness Center dietician. "It is designed to help people lose weight; and if that isn't your goal then the challenges provide an opportunity to improve your fitness." During last year's competition, each participant lost an average of more than five pounds and two inches off their waste line. The challenge may be taken on individually or as a team made up of two to four members. The challenges will end April 27, and all who complete the program will be awarded a SIS t-shirt and incentive prizes earned during participation. Additionally, Airmen and civilians will have the opportunity to represent their squadron. The squadron that enters the highest percentage of teams that complete the two-month challenge will receive the first-ever Soar into Shape traveling trophy. Participants are allowed to take part in whatever activities they like, keeping in mind that every little bit counts, as each completed event will earn themselves or their team more points. Haugen said points are earned by participating in a variety of different physical challenges, attending various fitness center and health classes, maintaining a nutrition log of fruit, vegetable and calorie intake, and by simply showing up. The points will accumulate and determine the overall winners for each category, who will be awarded a grand prize yet to be determined. Following an orientation - a quick way to score some early points - weigh-ins will be conducted for both individuals and teams, where goals will be established for participants. "For every team or participant, we will help them develop realistic and attainable goals for weight loss and maintenance," Haugen said, while also mentioning the social benefits of the program. "A lot of times people take this chance to meet each other and that results in community bonding, which is really important -- especially to new Airmen on base," she said. "The interaction is encouraging and is a good way to feel supported and kept accountable." To sign up, complete and return this registration form to the HAWC by Feb. 24. For more information call (701)747-4501.