Nearly 50 local residents have signed up for the statewide weight-loss initiative, Scale Back Alabama.

Weigh-ins are ongoing at Andalusia Regional and Mizell Memorial hospitals, with eight teams registered at ARH and another four registered at MMH.

Scale Back Alabama is a 10-week weight loss competition designed to capitalize on New Year’s resolutions and create a fun atmosphere for weight loss and physical activity.

Teams are comprised of four people, meaning 32 have registered at ARH and another 16 at MMH. Those teams losing a minimum of 10 pounds each will be entered state wide for monetary prizes.

At ARH, Valarie McCalman said that while the official weigh-in sessions ended Wednesday for the hospital, she can still register teams until Friday, which is the state’s official ending weigh-in date for the program.

“That’s the final cut-off date,” McCalman said. “But, if anyone wants to come in and register between now and then, that would be great.”

At Mizell, Wellness Center director Joni Russ said participant numbers will grow by the end of the week after she adds PowerSouth employees to the list – and possibly others.

“Remember, that we will also have weigh-ins at the Wellness Center on Friday from 6 a.m. until noon,” Russ said.

Additionally, in conjunction with Scale Back Alabama, ARH’s registered dietician, John Newsom, is teaching a free 10-week session of nutrition classes on Mondays at 4 p.m. in the hospital dining room. Classes will begin Jan. 27 and end March 31.

“The great thing about these classes are that you don’t have to be in Scale Back to go,” McCalman said. “The emphasis of these classes is overall nutrition, so if you just want to eat healthier, come on out.”

For more information, visit the website at scaleback.com or call ARH at 334.428.7010 or the Opp Wellness Center at 334.493.1730.