At SparkPeople, we know that all of our members have the ability to change their own lives—but we also believe in the undeniable power of having a strong support system. That’s why SparkGuy created our community in the first place: To provide people with a safe and supportive space to nurture their health, fitness, nutrition and weight-loss goals—and to have fun along the way. But for those seeking a smaller, more personalized group, our SparkTeams bring together members who share common interests or goals. For instance, there are teams for various age groups, hobbies, dietary restrictions, lifestyles, physical conditions and more. Each team has its own dedicated message board where members can share questions, stories, tips and motivators. And, of course, there are the “Spark Classes”—teams for all of the new members who joined SparkPeople within a certain designated week. One such team is “SP Class of February 17-23, 2008.” This week, the team is excited to celebrate its 10-year anniversary—a decade of sparking one another to lead healthy and happy lives. Kasey (KASEYCOFF) is one member of the SP Class of February 17-23, 2008. She joined SparkPeople on her daughter’s recommendation, as part of a New Year’s resolution to live a healthier lifestyle, and has been here ever since. Kasey describes her team as a “core group that has posted and interacted since the beginning, with subjects that have ranged all over the map.” While there is a great deal of variety among the members, they all share a common goal of becoming healthier. The SP Class of February 17-23, 2008 has approximately 18,254 members, now ranging from their 30s to their 70s. “In terms of location, we sort of span the globe,” Kasey says. “There are several in the United Kingdom, at least one in Australia and many from all over North America—quite a diversity.” Over the years, the team members have provided one another with the support to achieve significant weight loss, exercise and dietary goals. They’ve also lifted each other up during tough times. Class member Patty (PEPPERMINT125) has had some major challenges over the past decade, including her own battle with breast cancer and her husband’s major health trauma. With the help of SparkPeople, Patty has lost more than 30 pounds and is currently at her lowest weight in 20 years. “I have learned so many healthy habits that are now part of my daily life,” says Patty. “I drink lots of water, no soda. I incorporate fruits and veggies into my diet each day, limit processed foods and use my Fitbit try to get more exercise in each day. I am proud to be celebrating my Spark 10-year anniversary this week!” Mary Alice (MARYALICE411) was well over 200 pounds when she joined the Class back in 2008. Since then, she has lost more than 50 pounds. The team played a big part in helping Mary Alice navigate the site and overcome obstacles from an injury she incurred after an accident. “There is so much to this site—it helps to have people to show you around,” she says. “The [members in the class] helped me find teams that understood my problems and could help me lose weight with my limitations.” If you’re a new member of SparkPeople, we encourage you to find and join the designated class team for the week that you joined. Already a member of a Spark Class? We’d love to hear how your team has helped you on your journey toward your goals. |
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