A lot can happen in 15 weeks. Your whole life can change.

Our program participants aren’t movie stars or celebrities. They are regular people like you who have struggled to maintain a balance of family, work, healthy eating, and exercise. For some, it meant changing lifelong habits. For others, it meant learning some simple new tips and ideas to incorporate good habits into their lives. Their stories follow.

Have you participated in Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less? YOU can be an inspiration to others. Share your story by clicking the button below.

“Focuses on what you should eat, not what you cannot eat”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant who completed the program: “This is a great program to make a lifetime eating plan. This program focuses on what your should eat, not what you cannot eat.” – Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less Participant You might also enjoy: “Information […]

“Much more success in this program”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant who completed the program: “I have had much more success in this program than I have had in a long time. I am more hopeful that I will continue on this health journey and see the benefits.” – Eat Smart, Move […]

“More of a lifestyle change than a diet.”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant who completed the program: “This program is more of a lifestyle change than a diet. I feel like that is why I have been able to follow and stick with it longer than other things I have tried.” – Eat Smart, […]

“Information I can use for the rest of my life”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant who completed the program: “I signed up for the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less class because I needed to lose a few pounds and my insurance company paid the class fee. I am not really familiar with Zoom meetings but […]

“I was developing noticeable muscles, becoming stronger and less tired.”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant who completed the program: “I started ESMMWL on May 23rd with Carrie as our class lead.  My goal statement was “Lose 20 pounds at the end of these 15 weeks. Lose 15-20 pounds”.   Each week I learned more about the importance of […]

“Helped me make more mindful choices”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant that completed the program: “I participated in the ESMMWL class with my co-workers. It was great to be able to hold each other accountable. The program was very helpful in teaching me how to make more mindful choices. I lost nine […]

“Total cholesterol dropped 45 points”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant that completed the program: “I have taken two of your classes. In 2020, I participated in Eat Smart, Move More, Prevent Diabetes. By following the program and preparing more meals on the Mediterranean Diet, I had much success with weight loss […]

“Great space for self-care and not judgement”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant that completed the program: “The last 15 weeks with ESMMWL gave me the tools I needed, and I now have a healthy way of looking at my eating habits. My instructor was knowledgeable about diet and foods and how the body […]

“My awareness and mindfulness increased.”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant that completed the program: “The program has been great by increasing my awareness and mindfulness regarding health activities. I’ve always exercised regularly, but being aware of diet and behaviors has been key. My weight was already in an acceptable range (per […]

“A great program to live healthier”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant that completed the program: “Thanks for leading a great program to live healthier!  I was concerned the course might place too much emphasis on losing weight and was pleased that healthy eating and moving more strategies were the focus. I was […]

“I’m so happy that I signed up for this!”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant that completed the program: I just finished the Weigh Less program, and I’m so happy that I signed up for this! Since the program started I’ve dropped 17-18 lbs!!  I had a “team” doing the program with me. My husband has […]

“I lost 12.5 pounds due to the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less…”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant that completed the program: ” I was skeptical at first because Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less was my first weight-loss/health focused class for me. In addition to the normal anxiousness about a new experience, I was concerned of not “fitting in” […]

“I lost 16 pounds and 2.5 BMI points during the 15 weeks.”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant that completed the program: ” I joined the program through the Lancaster County (PA) Office of Aging.  I was very pleased with the approach to weight loss and for maintenance. The combination of mindful eating, daily food tracking and the weekly […]

“I did manage to lose an inch off my tummy so I am excited about that.”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant that completed the program: ” When I was approached at my senior center concerning this class, I was really excited about doing something positive to maintain good health and maybe take off a few inches/pounds. My starting weight was not horrible but […]

“I highly recommend it, you will be glad you did it.”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant that completed the program: “I started this program with some hesitation but I am so grateful for it. Carrie, our instructor, was great. She really motivated us. She was so encouraging and knowledgeable. This program teaches you to read labels, move […]

“The program was an awesome experience”

Below is a testimonial from recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant: “The Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less online webinar was an excellent program that enabled me to understand the reason for gaining weight and how to control the weight. The program taught me that being healthy is to be smart about grocery […]

“The class has made a great impact on my life” – Kimyetta

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Kimyetta, as she completed the program: “When I first started the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less program, weighing in at 220 lbs, I was unhealthy, eating unhealthy and not much energy to complete my day. When my job sent out […]

“I lost 26 pounds” – David

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, David, as he completed the program: “I attended all 15 sessions and really enjoyed my instructor’s positive attitude and knowledge of weight, diet, strength, and flexibility concepts. I lost 26 lbs by tracking and thinking about the interaction of diet, strength […]

“Not only did I lose weight, but I also became a healthier employee”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Maggie, as she completed the program: “One day I received an email from our HR Department that said our company would like to pay for the Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less program.  I was not sure if I was able […]

“Looking forward to the rest of the journey of a healthier me.”

Below is a testimonial from a current Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Kim, as she begins the program: “I have been in this class going on the 4th week and I must say, it is really awesome. I’ve lost 4 lbs but gained better understanding of how to eat smarter. I have so […]

“I feel 100% better”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Linda: “I am a woman, age 53, and had gained ~12 pounds over the last year. I was having a very hard time losing the weight. My goal weight is a number that I have held consistently for the past 25 […]

“I am a new woman!”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Ann. Way to GO, Ann! “For the past 10+ years I have been struggling with my weight and other health problems including chronic fatigue, dysautonomia, allergies, and anxiety.  I have tried multiple times to get in shape or lose weight only to […]

“This program was a game-changer for me.”

Below is an anonymous testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant: “This program was a game-changer for me. I have always struggled with my weight and have tried a lot of different diets. There is a lot of confusing and conflicting information out there. This program got me back to the basics. […]

“I enjoyed the program so much I did the course three times!!”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Nina-Jo: “I have long been interested in learning to eat better and to exercise more, and the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less program gave me a non-threatening way of pursuing that.  I learned how to eat more healthy meals and […]

“I know that I will be successful with the program” – Paul

Below is a testimonial from a current Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Paul: “I retired from North Carolina state government in 2009 and I have participated in the Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less program three times since then and am now starting my fourth round of classes (February 2018).  I have learned […]

Participant Testimonial: “Hooray! I did it! I did it! I lost 20 pounds!”

We are thrilled to share the following testimonial from Jacqueline, a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant. WAY TO GO, JAQUELINE! ________________ “Hooray! I did it! I did it! I lost 20 pounds! I can’t believe it! Drinking water, walking and being mindful of what I’m putting into my body and…..Wow! I can […]

Holiday Challenge Testimonial: David

We are excited to share the following testimonial from David, a 2017 Holiday Challenge participant. Way to go David! “Above is a photo of my younger brother Mike and I after participating in the inaugural Turkey Day 5k through Next Generation Performance fitness center in Benson, NC.  My brother Mike was visiting from Ohio for […]

“Find someone who will support you through the journey for health.”

Below is an anonymous testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant: “My experience with Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less has been incredible. My friend told me about the program and suggested we do it together. What an awesome suggestion. I must admit, at first I was thinking “how are we going […]

“Along this journey, I have received more than I ever thought possible”

Below is an anonymous testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant: “I completed my last class of 15-week Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less course last night. This has been an incredible journey for me but mostly for my ‘buddy’. I traveled down this road with one goal in mind: to help […]

“Woohoo! Last summer’s jeans fit again!”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant: “Woohoo! Last summer’s jeans fit again! I just want to take this opportunity to thank my instructor for a great class. Her enthusiasm is very motivating and her messages have helped me to revise my goal to focus on increasing movement […]

“I decreased my cholesterol from 246 to 200!”

Below is a testimonial from a current Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Anna. Anna shares her journey so far through Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less. Way to go, Anna! “Well, I have GREAT news to share with you; I have had my cholesterol screened via a free Sam’s Club screening, and I […]

“I know I am more effective as an employee”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Susan. Susan shares her journey through Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less and how she learned it’s not just about weight loss –  it’s about so much more than that.    “I would like to let you know the impact of the […]

“I have changed my way of life”

“Just in case I do not get the chance, I want to thank you for this class. I have a long story but I’ll keep it short. Last summer, the last day of school, I was not feeling like myself. Well, five days later I went to my doctor, rushed to the hospital with “something” […]

“My A1C level has dropped by more than 3 whole points”

  “I wanted to share some exciting news! I mentioned previously that a greater and more important issue for me is/was learning to take better care of myself. While I am still on the weight loss journey, I am pleased to share that my A1C level has dropped by more than 3 whole points. I am […]

“This has changed my life, and that of my 4 immediate family members as well”

We thrilled to introduce a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Ellen. Ellen shares her incredible journey and experience with Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less. Congratulations, Ellen! I wanted to share the success of my experience in Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less with  my instructor, Greg, and my Tuesday 11:00am group this […]

“I learned how to drop the ‘all or nothing’ attitude”

Today we introduce, Debbie, a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant. She shares her incredible experience and journey towards health. Way to go, Debbie!   ” First I’ll say, this is my first class here. Though I knew a lot of the information already, it really helps to hear it again, discuss it, get […]

“These are the types of changes that last.”

We are excited to announce our guest blogger, Chris. Chris participated in the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less program over the Summer and shares his journey- and incredible success. Congrats, Chris! I’ll be completely honest, I had no idea if Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less was the right program for me. I had […]

“That’s right, 34 lbs in one summer!”

I didn’t know that June 2nd would change my life, but it did. That was the night of my very first East Smart, Move More, Weigh Less class. Since that night I have become very mindful of everything I put in my mouth and the exercise I get each day. Without the lessons and tools […]

Dr. K. Participated in the Program to Refer Her Patients- This is Her Feedback

Dr. K. wanted to check out the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less program before referring her patients. After going through the program herself and completing all 15 classes, she provided us with the following feedback. “I am concerned about the obesity crisis I see in this country and in my practice.  I know obesity significantly […]

“One day a week, I can do that for myself and my health”

Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Katrina, shares her incredible weight loss journey. We are so proud of you, Katrina! Class began January 11, 2016, but my current journey began the last couple weeks of November.  I had been receiving email notices about signing up for the classes for several years now, I even […]

“I look better, I feel better, and I am smarter.”

We love participant feedback! Below is an anonymous testimonial from a participant in the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less program. Read more testimonials and share your own here: Participant Testimonials. “Just a quick email to let you know that our Tuesday evening instructor is doing an incredible job with this program. We have a GREAT time […]

“I used food to escape.”

Below is an anonymous testimonial from a participant in the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less program. Read more testimonials and share your own here: Participant Testimonials. “It really has been putting all of the things Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less has been teaching me into action. If I had to pick one thing, I would […]

“My whole family is now eating better.”

We are excited to introduce our guest blogger for the day, Melissa. Melissa recently completed the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less class and she shares her experience with the program. Congratulations Melissa! Melissa’s Journey I have LOVED the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less class that I recently took.  I wanted to share a […]

“I lost 23 lbs and dropped 2 dress sizes.”

We are excited to announce our guest blogger for the day, Sheilla. Sheilla was a part of the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less program earlier this year and she continues to accomplish reach new goals since then. Let’s cheer her on as she runs her next race this New Year’s Eve! Go Sheilla Go! […]

“After having a baby, I had a new body that didn’t want to exercise.”

We are thrilled to announce our guest blogger for the day, Heather. Heather recently completed the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less class and she shares her journey back to doing what she loves. Way to go Heather! I started the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less program because I had a little boy in September […]

A Participant’s View: Keeping Up Going Down

I am excited that I participated in Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less… because, after 15 lessons, I can definitely confirm my statement in my pre-program blog: Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less IS an authentic “life style changing program!” Before the program began, my husband took a BEFORE photo (those of you who followed […]

“My husband and I took the class together.”

We are excited to announce our guest blogger, Mendee. Mendee shares her thoughts on Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less and how it has impacted both her AND her husband! Congratulations to both of them! “I have been very happy with Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less and with my weight loss. My husband and I […]

“I truly believe this has saved my life.”

I absolutely love the Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less program, and it couldn’t have come at a better time.  I truly believe that it has saved my life, and given me more quality time with my children.  In January this year, a doctor warned me that I had to lose weight.  The look on […]

Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less Journeys – Allen

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the class because I’ve seen results. The class has simplified strategies on eating smart and exercising daily. I eat more fruits for snacks instead of packaged foods, drink more water and try to walk at least 30 min daily. I also eat low calorie foods and read food labels. I’ve lost 19 […]

“My mind hasn’t caught up with the changes in my body..”

“I wanted to let you know that I really enjoy the class and it has gotten my weight loss jump started after a few months of a plateau. I was 260 at my heaviest. At 5’10 that put me with a BMI 37. Sometimes I feel as if my mind hasn’t caught up with the […]

“I decided to face my insecurities & prioritize my health.”

We are thrilled to introduce our guest blogger, Rhonda. Rhonda has recently finished her Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less class series and has shared her story below. We would not be more proud, way to go Rhonda! I’m Still Smiling! I thought “I’ve never taken an online class.  Will I know what to do?” […]

“Mindfulness worked when every other diet failed”

She’s tried Weight Watchers, the Metabolic Diet, even a diet prescription from her doctor, and Laura says nothing worked, until the Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less program.  So far, Laura has lost eight pounds.  She says “Being mindful of what I eat and tracking it has really worked. I’m finally seeing the scale move […]

Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less Journeys – Shirley

Today we are so proud to introduce our guest blogger, Shirley, who shares her journey with Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less. Congratulations, Shirley! “About six years ago I was a very different person. My health was a mess. I decided at that point that I desperately needed to be in better health. With the […]

Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less Journeys – Shar

We are excited to announce today’s guest blogger, Shar! Shar shares her experience with Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less and how the small changes she made led to even better results than expected–even including Brussels sprouts for Christmas dinner! Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less made a difference to my health and well-being in […]

Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less Journeys – Vicky

We are so pleased to introduce our guest blogger, Vicky, as she shares her incredible weight loss journey.  A year ago Vicky was relying on motorized scooters and now she has just finished her first ever 5k race!  In her In her testimony she quotes “There are no magic tricks and no short cuts. It is hard […]

Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less Journeys – Jake

We are SO pumped to have guest blogger and Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less participant, Jake, share his weight loss journey and how small changes have made a big impact! “I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical when I embarked on my Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less journey, but on the heels of […]

Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less Journeys – Christine

We are extremely proud to have guest blogger and Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Christine, share her weight loss journey and AMAZING transformation! “At twelve, I weighed 150 pounds. I began dieting in high school and continued off and on throughout adulthood. Food was a friend, comforter, and stress reliever.  Physical activity, outside of household […]

An Endorsement from North Carolina Prevention Partners

By Julie Knaack, MPH, RD, LDN – Health Promotion Manager at NC Prevention Partners Have you ever noticed that you have to pay 20 cents extra to get a whole grain bun at Chick Fil-A®? Or found it difficult to locate the stairwell when visiting your dentist on the 3rd floor?  One of the many reasons our […]

Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less Journeys – Caroline

We are super proud to have guest blogger and Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant, Caroline, share her weight loss journey and how packing a lunch helps her get through the day: “When I began the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less program I had just come out of a very stressful job situation […]

Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less Journeys: Results!

This post is a tribute to our hard-working participants and the goals they accomplish. As 2012 comes to a close, we look back on everything Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participants have achieved and look forward to future participants doing the same! We could ramble on and on about our participants (and the program), but we figure it’s more […]

Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less Journeys: Our wonderful instructors!

We would be nowhere without our instructors, and we are not the only ones who love them. Here are a few of the emails we have received praising our wonderful instructors. One participant writes; “You are an amazing teacher and you always have such enthusiastic zest! (I believe they broke the mold with you!) I […]

Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less Journeys: Family Involvement

The Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less team recently received an email with the subject line, “Thank you for what you have done for my husband!” from the wife of a program participant. Losing weight is no easy task and it’s even harder if you feel like you’re doing it alone. Having your family involved […]

“Found a new lifestyle with ESMMWL.”

“I am so glad that I joined the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less program. The information that was given and shared in the class was most rewarding. Since starting the class I have learned new strategies and ways of preparing my food with important information such as counting calories (which is not as hard […]

“It can truly help you get control.”

“I was successful in losing 39.5 pounds with the class. I am still practicing what I learned, still walking 4 miles most days, lifting weights and even working my way up to jogging a little. Since the class ended I have lost 24.2 lbs for a total of 63.7 (let’s just call it 64). I […]

“You’re eating so healthy!”

“When I heard about Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less, I knew this was a great opportunity to assist my employees. Well, the program exceeded my expectations! During the 15-week class, I lost 20.6 pounds! One month after the end of class (also during the holiday season), I have lost another pound! “I was in […]

“Lost weight and saved money.”

I recommend the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less (ESMMWL) program to anyone who has failed in the past in their efforts to lose weight. For the past several years, I have tried, without success, to reverse the steady expansion of my waistline. Even a dedicated running and/or cycling program seemed to have no real […]