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Make the holiday season a healthy one, take the ‘Maintain, Don’t Gain’ challenge 

Published on November 14, 2022

For many, the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year. However, the period between Thanksgiving and the new year can also be difficult for those trying to maintain healthy habits. Holiday parties, large family meals, and the general busyness of the season, often combine to put self-care on the back burner.

Enter “Maintain, Don’t Gain,” the annual challenge sponsored by the City of Huntsville and Huntsville Hospital Health System. Now in its 5th year as part of the City’s Healthy Huntsville initiative, the six-week program begins Monday, Nov. 14.

“This annual program helps us focus on making good choices throughout the holiday season,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “We’ll be able to start 2023 feeling fit and well and not add “weight loss” to our list of New Year’s resolutions.”

In 2021, many participants not only maintained their weight, they lowered it. A combined 656 pounds were lost during the program.

Huntsville Hospital CEO Jeff Samz is again inviting the community to use exercise and a healthy diet to keep emotional and physical health in top shape.

“There’s nothing more important than your health,” Samz said. “As we welcome the joy of the holiday season, we encourage you to Maintain, Don’t Gain, by making smart choices at your holiday celebrations and taking advantage of the Huntsville area’s outstanding recreational opportunities.”

From Nov. 14-20, participants can sign up and weigh in at one of several “Maintain, Don’t Gain” registration sites. Participants will weigh out at the same location the week of Jan. 2, 2023. Those who weigh in and out will receive a participation prize. There will also be additional prize drawings for those who meet the challenge.

Participating Locations and Hours 

City Recreation Centers 

  • Brahan Spring Recreation Center, 3770 Ivy Ave.
  • Dr. Richard Showers, Sr. Recreation Center, 4600 Blue Spring Road
  • Fern Bell Recreation Center, 107-A Sanders Road
  • Johnson Legacy Center, 6000 Cecil Fain Drive
  • Mark Russell Recreation Center, 429 Taylor Road
  • Optimist Recreation Center, 703 Oakwood Ave.

Recreation Center Weigh-in Hours 

  • Monday – Friday: 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
  • Saturday: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
  • Sunday: 1-5 p.m.

Huntsville Hospital Wellness Centers

  • Jones Valley Wellness Center, 1345 4 Mile Post Road
  • Madison Hospital Wellness Center, 8391 US-72
  • Medical Mall Wellness Center, 1963 South Memorial Parkway

Wellness Center Weigh-in Hours

  • Monday – Thursday: 5 a.m.-9 p.m.
  • Friday: 5 a.m.-8 p.m.
  • Saturday: 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
  • Sunday: 1-5 p.m.

Healthy Huntsville is a citywide initiative to reduce obesity by promoting healthy eating and active lifestyles. Check us out on Facebook and huntsvilleal.gov/healthyhuntsville.

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