Government initiatives to help you make a plan and stick to it

There have been many government initiatives in Australia over the years encouraging people to lose weight and remain active. The 'Life be in it' initiative that was prevalent in the 1970's was one of the first and has helped many people get advice and help with combating our increasingly sedentary lifestyle. Although funding for this particular initiative stopped in the early 1980's the life be in it website is still active and can be found here. Since then the Australian government has continued providing assistance and advice for those wishing to become and stay more fit.

The current initiative is advertised on TV, radio and the Internet and is called 'Swap it, Dont stop it!' The website which can be found here provides information on how you can reduce your caloric intake and increase your physical activity without having to give up the things you enjoy. It is a good idea as most people assume losing weight involves a massive change in eating habits and lifestyle. This initiative helps take a more measured approach and shows that you can still succeed in your weight loss goals without changing your entire lifestyle.

The best thing about this initiative is that mobile devices can now be used to assist you with your goals. The website provides a link to an iPhone application that allows you track your progress. There is also a facebook page that you can subscribe to allowing you to follow updates and even contact other like minded users. So get out there, and Swap it, Dont stop it!