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Longview ISD assistant superintendent sees big results among staff through health and wellness program

At 51 years years old, Assistant Superintendent of Finance Dr. Wayne Guidry has completed four triathlons and a handful of marathons.

LONGVIEW, Texas — Studies show that a change of diet, and a balanced fitness regimen can lead to a better mood, more energy and weight loss.

Assistant Superintendent of Finance Dr. Wayne Guidry took that theory to a new level after trying it out for himself. At 51 years old, Guidry completed his fourth IronMan triathlon competition in late September. It consist of 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles of biking, and a full marathon. 

Guidry changed his eating habits years ago and he's felt a noticeable difference. 

"It was magical. Once I started eating better and putting more fruits and vegetables in my body, I felt like I was 20 years old again," Guidry said. 

Guidry cross trained for 10 months to prepare for the triathlon. He biked a total of 3,238 miles, ran 776 miles and swam 123 miles.

 "I just enjoy it, It's just part of who I am," Guidry said. "I'm not sure how many more to do, but I just know I'll end up doing more of these, because it's just who I am." 

Due to the miraculous results he's seen with his fitness journey, he decided to start the Lobo Strong Health and Wellness Program for Longview ISD staff. It's a corporate challenge that involves tracking people's progress on a district app, in hopes of collecting enough points to then earn three days off from work. 

The program started three years ago and he's already seen big results, like teachers choosing to walk around the classroom more, better moods at work and less sick days were taken. 

"We did a survey where I asked them,' Do you feel like you're a better employee, like you're more productive?' And 89 percent of the employees say that they are more productive, over 85 percent of the employees say that they feel better mentally," Guidry said. "So this wellness program is just impacting so many aspects of our teachers lives, our staff's life." 

Guidry is a strong believer that no matter the age or what a person does for work, they can choose to change their habits for the better. 

"Whether you're an athlete or teacher or anything, we put so much garbage in our body, and if we could just start putting high energy fuel with fruits and vegetables, it'll change your life," Guidry said. 

RELATED: 2 Tyler ISD athletes qualify for Cross Country UIL State Championships


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