Doug Marshall’s health and wellness journey has always been about continuous improvement. After losing 40 pounds, Doug, Ohio State Wexner Medical Center Revenue Management and Revenue Cycle Training Director, has consistently grown healthier and stronger through a combination of healthy choices sparked by Your Plan for Health (YP4H) and Ohio State’s overall commitment to a culture of wellness.
“It’s exciting to work somewhere where health is the push and focus,” he said. “It’s part of the culture, and it’s an extra motivator.”
Doug was an athlete throughout his youth, and he has always been competitive. During adulthood, he lost touch with exercise and healthy living, which led to high blood pressure and his doctor’s decision to increase his medication. That was the turning point; Doug decided to lose weight instead.
After a coworker suggested counting calories, Doug lost 40 pounds in three months and as a result was able to quit his blood pressure medication completely. During this period, he found inspiration through Ohio State’s culture of wellness and was motivated to continue his journey to better health.
“YP4H is incredibly encouraging and promotes fitness at work, which I really like,” said Doug. “The program motivates me to eat healthy, and it holds me accountable.”
Although Doug had lost 40 pounds, he wanted to become stronger. He soon began building muscle by taking CrossFit classes and participating in YP4H points tracking challenges, particularly the step tracking activities. He remains committed to healthy living, and every October he leads a team for the YP4H physical activity challenge Hit the Road with the Buckeyes.
Because Doug works in healthcare, he is not only passionate about his personal wellness, but the health of those around him as well. He encourages his coworkers to get involved with YP4H challenges and take advantage of Ohio State’s resources. Doug’s motivation stems from his competitive nature, and he is always looking for new opportunities.
Throughout his health and wellness journey, Doug has found wonderful support through his Ohio State Wexner Medical Center primary care physician and sports medicine doctor. He has also participated in the Ohio State Ross Heart Hospital TriFit Challenge Triathlon, along with numerous Tough Mudder competitions and 5K races.
Due to his family’s history of cardiovascular disease, Doug is especially motivated to stay healthy. He attends weekly CrossFit classes, which help him maintain his weight while building muscle.
“I just feel so much better,” Doug said. “I never want to go back.”
Doug advises others starting their health and wellness journeys simply to start making healthy lifestyle adjustments, even if the changes are small. He also encourages them to take advantage of opportunities and resources at Ohio State.
Learn more about YP4H at yp4h.osu.edu.
