INDIANAPOLIS (July 13, 2005) -- Governor Mitch Daniels is asking Hoosiers to get involved in a new state initiative that will help improve the health status of Indiana and improve individual fitness. He introduced INShape Indiana today, a Web-based program that connects people with local services and events that help them make healthy choices to improve their quality of life.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is good for you and good for Indiana said the governor during the launch of the program at the National Institute for Fitness and Health in Indianapolis. ;Too many Hoosiers are losing years because they do not embrace healthy habits. And, health care costs in Indiana are among the highest in the country. Our rising cost of health insurance coverage, combined with lost productivity due to illness, has made Indiana a less desirable place to do business.

According to statistics collected by the Department of Health, Indiana is the fourth most obese state, 26 percent of adult Hoosiers report no regular physical activity and nearly 78 percent consume less than five servings of fruits and vegetables each day. In addition, 25 percent of Indiana adults smoke cigarettes.

Millions of Hoosiers can help our economic comeback gain momentum by participating in INShape Indiana, said Governor Daniels, who maintains an active workout schedule each week.

To join INShape Indiana, individuals and groups can log onto the Web site at www.inshape.IN.gov and register for free by answering a brief survey.Every two weeks, participants will receive an e-mail message, asking them to provide an update on their wellness progress.

The INShape Indiana Web site also serves as a clearinghouse for information on programs, activities, and events from throughout the state related to nutrition, physical activity, and smoking cessation.

The purpose of INShape Indiana is to empower individuals to adopt healthy behaviors and improve their quality of life, said Dr. Judith A. Monroe, state health commissioner. Ultimately, we want to celebrate the success of those who have made the commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

A series of incentives, including free access to the Indiana State Parks, ice skating at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, discounts on produce at Marsh, and a number of recognition ceremonies, will be used to provide motivation. Recognition programs may include such opportunities as most participants from a community or fittest business.

Daniels also announced that Indiana basketball legend George McGinnis will serve as chairman of the Governor's Council for Physical Fitness and Sports, and Lyn St. James will be the vice chair. Colts quarterback Peyton Manning will serve as the honorary chairman.

INShape Indiana will be administered through the Governor's Council for Physical Fitness and Sports at the Indiana State Department of Health. For more information on INShape Indiana, contact the Governor's Council at 317/233-7671.

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