Hernando wants to lose tons by Dec 22

It has been a hit with those in Hernando, Miss. It's a program called simply "HEAL."

"HEAL" stands for Healthy Eating Active Living and a Mid-South city who has been named the healthiest city in the state, has tried to provide classes for those who not only want to lose weight but live a healthy lifestyle.

The city's recreation department, which has been doing this for the last two years, is giving free exercise classes to anyone who wants them.

The program in 2011 only had 30 participants. This year 363 have signed up.

The city's recreation department has a new goal. They are shooting for a combined weight loss of 12,000 pounds by Dec. 22.

Basically the 363 who have signed up have to lose at least 33 pounds each.

"I think we struck a nerve with people. I think people are just sick and tired of being sick and tired and they are ready to get fit."

Classes are totally free and held in Hernando's Gale Center. Baptist Hospital is picking up the cost.

They are offering $100 cash prizes to those who lose the most weight by the end of the year, most improved blood pressure, and most improved cholesterol.

The interesting thing about the heal program is that you don't have to live in Hernando to take part in the classes. The city is allowing anyone who wants to lose weight to sign up.