Lose 2,013 Pounds In 2013

Lose 2013 pounds in 2013; that's the goal of a new weight loss program in South Dakota. Be Well South Dakota is encouraging people in the state to lose weight through a new program.

Julie Assid is making it her mission to live a healthier life. The Sioux Falls woman lost 30 pounds in the past year.

"I'm running farther. I can lift more," Assid said.

And she's not done yet. Her goal is to lose ten pounds in the next 12 weeks. She's not only getting help at the gym to reach that goal, but also online.

"Through our social website, it's an easy way for individuals to have some accountability by reporting back," Trisha Dohn with Be Well South Dakota said.

Be Well South Dakota's Facebook page is helping South Dakotans lose weight. It's asking people in the state to lose a set amount of pounds over the next 12 weeks. Every week participants report how many pounds they've shed. The goal is to lose at least 2013 pounds in the first three months of 2013.

"Although this campaign does focus on weight loss, throughout the site we have various health and wellness tips that focus on the importance of exercise, overall eating healthy, and reducing your stress," Dohn said.

One of the reasons for this program is the number of obese people in South Dakota. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than half of the people in the state are obese.

"There are many health implications of being overweight. You're at more risk for heart disease and other various conditions," Dohn said.

That's one of the reasons Assid is hitting the gym while gaining accountability online.

"Just be as healthy as I can and as strong as I can. I have a young son to keep up with," Assid said.

Every week participants report back, they'll be entered in a drawing for a weekly prize. There's also a grand prize of a $200 Scheel's gift card. More than 160 people are already enrolled.