You lose and you gain: a program to fight obesity in Rijeka, Opatija, Novi Vinodolski, and Platak

The program You lose and you gain represents an important step in the fight against excessive body weight, which is conducted as part of the Alliance for Sports Recreation Sport for All of the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County. In cooperation with partners and under the patronage of the county, this program is intended for people of all age groups, and encompasses cities such as Rijeka, Opatija, Novi Vinodolski, and the winter center Platak. The goal is to involve as many citizens as possible in healthier habits and physical activity, which is crucial for preventing numerous health problems.

Excessive body weight and obesity are not just aesthetic problems; they represent serious health risks that are often ignored. According to available statistics, obesity is increasing globally on a daily basis, and Croatia is no exception. This problem affects all aspects of life, including physical health, mental state, and even social interactions. The program You lose and you gain aims to provide a holistic approach to health, educating participants about the importance of proper nutrition, regular exercise, and emotional well-being.

Program structure

The program consists of various activities designed to support participants in achieving their weight loss goals and improving their overall health status. Over the course of four months, participants will have the opportunity to engage in:

1. Introductory lecture: This session allows participants to become familiar with the risks of obesity and understand the importance of lifestyle changes.
2. Medical assessment: Through a detailed medical evaluation, experts will determine the health status of participants and recommend individualized plans.
3. Diagnostic examinations: Measuring BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis) and ABI (ankle-brachial index) will help assess body composition and circulation, which is vital for determining the right steps in the weight loss process.
4. Healthy eating counseling: Through these sessions, nutritionists will educate participants on healthy eating habits and meal planning tailored to their needs.
5. Workshops for making healthy food: These workshops will allow participants to practice preparing healthy meals, learning how to balance their eating habits.
6. Motivational programs: Lectures like "Let’s exercise, have fun and be fit" will provide inspiration for participants to regularly incorporate physical activity into their lives.
7. Diverse physical activities: This section includes Nordic walking, SUP (stand-up paddle) and rehabilitative walking, with all activities adapted to different fitness levels.

In addition to these activities, the program is tailored to the needs of the participants, so they will be grouped according to experience levels and physical fitness. This approach ensures that everyone can find something that suits their needs and abilities, fostering team spirit and mutual support among participants. Furthermore, participants will have the opportunity to create their own meal and exercise plans, which will be regularly reviewed with the help of experts, further increasing the program's effectiveness.

Applications and organization

Applications for the program You lose and you gain are open to all interested parties, and can be made via email at sportzasve.pgz@gmail.com. Additionally, interested individuals can apply in person at the first training session that will be held on September 8 during the Sports Recreation Festival at Platak. The organizers invite everyone not to miss the opportunity to improve their health.

The number of participants per group is limited, and the organizers emphasize the importance of early applications. The program starts on October 14, and participants will have the opportunity to choose a group based on their location – Rijeka, Opatija, or Novi Vinodolski. In case of bad weather conditions, training sessions will be held indoors, ensuring the continuity of the program regardless of external conditions. All activities are designed to be dynamic and engaging, encouraging participants to get involved and actively participate.

Additional activities: Nordic walking

The tourist board of Novi Vinodolski, in cooperation with the Nordic Walking Team Opatija, continues to organize Nordic walking. This activity, which has recently gained popularity, provides an excellent way for physical activity in the fresh air, as well as an opportunity to socialize with other participants. Various trails are planned that will allow participants to explore the beauty of nature around Novi Vinodolski. These trails are designed to suit different fitness levels, encouraging the inclusion of all citizens.

• October 12: Fisherman's Trail (6 km) – a beautiful trail along the sea, ideal for all fitness levels.
• October 26: Heavenly Labyrinths (7.5 km) – a more challenging trail that leads through picturesque areas, perfect for nature lovers.
• November 16: Valley of Wine (8 km) – a trail that passes through wine-growing regions, offering the chance to taste local wines and enjoy the natural beauty.
• November 23: From the spring to Frankopan (10.5 km) – a longer trail that includes cultural and historical landmarks of the region, allowing participants to connect with the history of the area.

All participants are invited to join and maintain a positive spirit during this journey towards a healthier version of themselves. The project You lose and you gain is not just an opportunity for physical change; it also encourages emotional and social interaction, thus creating a community that supports each other. This support is crucial for the program's success, as it allows participants to go through challenges together and celebrate successes. All details about the program will be available on official websites and social media, and the organizers expect a great response and enthusiasm among citizens.