Big Daddy Weave tackle obesity

|PIC1|Big Daddy Weave's lead singer and guitarist Mike Weaver is resolving to lose 90 pounds this year by launching the "90 in 09 Challenge".

That may seem like a lot of weight for a member of an active band, but fans know that Big Daddy Weave was named after brothers Mike and Jay Weaver, who both admit to having "larger than average exteriors".

"Our bodies are temples that God created," says Weaver. "I want to restore and take better care of what He has provided, as well as create a place to motivate and teach others to do the same. With 90 in 09 we'll all be held more accountable because we won't be able to hide the scales."

In addition to signing on with the "90 in 09 Challenge" at www.90in09.com and following Weaver's progress, fans can also join the health initiative by sending in their own photos and tracking their successes. Participants will have access to healthy food recipes, exercise techniques and more wellness information. Individuals can further meet the 90 in 09 support team including renowned wellness leaders Dr Asa Andrew, also known as "America's Health Coach", and Scott Reall, YMCA Restore Ministries' founder and executive director.

Obesity is the second leading cause of preventable death after smoking, according to a CDC report, and is associated with type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease, arthritis, gallstones and certain types of cancer. Andrew further explains that 80 per cent of health challenges people face today are diet and lifestyle related. Other statistics show that 65 per cent of Americans are overweight while 35 per cent are clinically obese.

Media partners KLOVE radio network and HearItFirst.com are joining the 90 in 09 challenge and will provide national promotion for the campaign. Weaver, Andrew and Reall will be featured throughout the year on the media outlets, giving updates and news on the challenge, in addition to video content to encourage participants.

Entering its eleventh year complete with all original members, Big Daddy Weave released its fifth studio project, What Life Would Be Like, last summer. The album's title cut held a Top 10 position at radio for 19 weeks while peaking at the No 3 spot. For more information, visit www.bigdaddyweave.com.