FOX 18 : KLJB/KGCW – Quad Cities: Davenport, Bettendorf,Branstad Launches Bid to Make Iowa Healthiest State

Branstad Launches Bid to Make Iowa Healthiest State

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Iowa Governor Terry Branstad is putting out the call to exercise and eat right. As Iowa prepares to battle Illinois in the annual Tug Fest this weekend, it's perfect timing for a pep talk.

Pulling a 740-pound rope that's 2,700 feet long, Tug Fest competitors call it the worst three minutes of a person's life. And after losing the last five years to Illinois, Iowa has some catching up to do.

"Illinois has been one up on us every time," said Iowa Tug Master Shad Nelson. "They've been practicing religiously for the past three or four years, and it's been showing."

Now the battle between the states is headed to the gym. Gov. Branstad is aiming for the top.

"Iowa is going to be the healthiest state in the country," he said.

Right now, Iowa ranks 19th out of all the states for overall well being. Illinois comes in a bit down the line at 26th place. Gov. Branstad wants Iowa to become the healthiest state in the country within five years.

"This is going to make Iowa more attractive for business decision-makers to choose to locate and expand their business in our state," he said.

That theory seems to make sense inside Gold's Gym. It's where a healthier state could be a more successful state.

"You've got to force people to get outside any more," said Seth Ross, a trainier at Gold's Gym. "I think the more we can get in people's faces telling them to actually be active that's going to be best."

Gov. Branstad says that lifestyle changes could help direct more money to economic development instead of spending it on lost productivity and health care.

At Pete's Produce stand in Bettendorf, that starts with nutrition. There's loads of fresh fruits and vegetables. But as customers line up for peaches and sweet corn, is Iowa or Illinois actually healthier?

"Iowa," said Jeff Bradford, East Moline. "I think they do pretty good."

"Iowa, of course," said Sharlene Peterson, Pete's Produce. "We've got better corn."

"Illinois," voted Charles Prude, East Moline. "That's because I'm taking the corn to Illinois."

One tug at a time, Iowa is trying to grunt and groan its way to the top. It will be a tall task to top Hawaii, which is ranked in first place.

"It's a big deal," concluded Nelson.