Milwaukee Bucks Health and Wellness; free weight management program
MILWAUKEE - The Milwaukee Bucks announced on Thursday, July 25 a new and free weight management program available to anyone.
A news release said the 12-month program combines the three pillars of health – personalized medical care, exercise and nutrition – and has been designed with expert advisors and the Bucks’ performance and sports nutrition departments.
"The exercise program was designed by the world-class Milwaukee Bucks Performance Team, and these programs are specifically designed to optimize body composition in a way that's approachable and sustainable for everyone in the community," said Dr. Elizabeth Sharp.
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Addressing disparity
For medical assistant Cece Jackson, living a healthy lifestyle has been an ongoing struggle.
"I just tried simply dieting, exercising, but nothing really worked," she said.
That was especially the case, Jackson said, after growing up on Milwaukee's north side where resources were limited. That is, until now.
"I feel good, I'm happy, I'm happy at work," said Jackson. "It's been really good. It's been successful."
Jackson is one of 100 patients who joined the program, and said she's seeing results – down 20 pounds – in four months.
"Obesity rates in some of the ZIP codes within Milwaukee County, they are higher than the national average," said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. "We know that many health disparities are exacerbated by not only race, but socio-economic factors, geography, access to health care and other inequities that exist in our society.
"I believe that with this new initiative, the Milwaukee Bucks Health and Wellness program, this is going to move us into new heights. This is a step towards helping us address some of the health disparities, as well as bring many of the much-needed services to those who absolutely need it."
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Sharp said obesity can lead to chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol.
"It really does bridge the gap between prevention and wellness through weight loss," she said.
How it works
Participants in Bucks Health and Wellness receive a comprehensive initial assessment that includes strength testing and biometric analysis, weight loss medication, blood work and laboratory analysis, along with continued virtual and in-person follow-ups at the program clinic in Schlitz Park – located at 101 W. Pleasant Street, Suite 204, Milwaukee.
"So very individualized, very customized and really unique," said Dr. Troy Flanagan, Bucks vice president of performance. "Patients are doing around 20 to 30 minutes of resistance training program every day and incorporating that into their life."
Milwaukee Bucks Health and Wellness
A health care team is dedicated to providing high-quality service, and participants have access to a mobile app that offers a personalized meal plan and exercise program, as well as yoga and meditation videos.
Attendance at the initial weigh-in and all follow-up sessions with providers are required. Eligible patients must be between the ages of 18-64, have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or above, be non-diabetic and meet specific income thresholds.
Right now, there are 100 people registered to be a part of this program. The goal is to have 1,000 patients at the end of the year.
"We've got to let this grow," said Milwaukee Bucks President Peter Feigin.
Learn more about the Milwaukee Bucks Health and Wellness program – and how you can take part.