The W's Shape Up and Ship Out Program has been replaced by another weight-loss effort.

Shape Up and Ship Out, which rewarded weight loss with cruises, was created by the previous executive director of Campus Recreation. But after three years, the new executive director, Amy Swingle, and other members in the department decided that it was time for something different.

Business/Facilities Coordinator Betsy Spencer said, “The Mississippi State in Motion Program offered more of an education component for the people, so it has taken the place of the Shape Up and Ship Out Program.” The new program expanded to MUW in fall 2007. It started when a group of local partners were meeting in West Point to plan an initiative to reduce obesity in Clay County.

Mississippi in Motion encourages program participants to make lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthier diet and doing more physical activity. In addition, they learn about chronic diseases and how to prevent them. Studies show that participants in Clay County have increased their fruit and vegetable consumption and increased their physical activity, as determined by pedometer usage. The 12-week program begins with a registration session coupled with a health fair, during which participants’ weight, height, body mass index, and blood pressure are recorded. Over the following 10 weeks, participants attend weekly educational sessions on different healthy living topics, such as the importance of exercise, portion control, and the reduction of sweets and fats.

One of the first people to take part in and win the Shape Up and Ship Out was Administrative Assistant Rodie J. Cunningham. Cunningham won the competition in November 2004 after losing 20 pounds. The hardest part of losing the weight, Cunningham said, was “trying to stay focused on doing the exercises.” The winners went on a seven-day cruise to Jamaica. Cunningham said that she took along a co-worker and her sister-in-law to enjoy the fun with her. Although Cunningham has gained some of the weight back, she said that taking part in the program showed her that she could do anything she set her mind to.