Social Media Encourages Healthier Habits During SHAPE Month

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Getting in shape doesn’t just mean you have to hit the gym. In fact, improving your health habits is only a mouse click away.

Using social media is a great way to connect with friends and improve your health habits.

“What we’re trying to do is daily challenges that are small and attainable and don’t overwhelm people who may not otherwise be doing these healthy activities,” Jennifer Jones with the North Central Health District said.

September is Georgia SHAPE month. The North Central Health District and Macon Mayor Robert Reichert are challenging you to get healthy bu using social media to offer daily health tips.

“Follow it on Facebook and Twitter and pick up the tip of the day, whether that’s let not eat any fried food today or let’s exercise for ten minutes or let’s drink water,” Mayor Reichert said.

“They’re not all nutrition and activity challenges, but they’re all things, done together, will improve your health,” Jones said.

Jones says heart disease, diabetes, and obesity are all major health concerns here in the Peach State. Even though these daily challenges may seem small, over time you can make big improvements to your health.

“Hopefully they will become habit and they’re so small that people won’t even realize that they’re changing so dramatically,” Jones said.

Even Mayor Reichert is stepping up to the challenge.

“We’re trying to do better with our own weight and shape up ourselves. We’re taking this as an opportunity to loose weight [and] to try to exercise more,” he said.

Take on the challenge by connecting with Mayor Reichert on Facebook and Twitter. Also follow the North Central Health District on Facebook and Twitter.