At Work teams find creative ways to stay inspired

Over the last two months, more than 40 team captains have led their company groups through the trials and tribulations of the 2016 Fittest Loser At Work Challenge.

With only four weeks remaining in this tight race, how will these hardworking leaders inspire their teams to stay the course and finish this challenging competition strong?

With a lot of hard work and motivation.

More than 80 team members hit the Schaumburg Orangetheory Fitness studio for a 60-minute workout involving multiple intervals designed to boost the metabolism and ignite calorie burn.

And individually, they're working hard to finish strong.

Elk Grove Park District's Team Wii Gettin Fit captains Johnny Pacheco and Aileen Tischauser rely on the positive approach for group motivation.

"We continually tell team members how great they are doing," says Aileen. "Everyone sees that this is much more than just weight loss. They are having fun incorporating this new plan into their lives,"

Team Wii Gettin Fit won't be disbanding once this challenges ends.

"We've put in place training for when the competition is over," says Aileen. "All participants have committed to continuing with the fun of working out. At meetings we talk about our experiences and successes. These new friendships are great and teamwork has its definite advantages."

Clearbrook's Team Withering aWeigh captain Kristen Daniels pulls her team together with group activities both in and out of the office.

"We go out for healthy lunches, exercise on weekends and plan workouts for after work," says Daniels. "Everyone is supportive and encouraging. We really have a great team."

Team Withering aWeigh's motto keep members motivated and inspired.

"I know you feel clothes becoming looser. Isn't it great?" Daniels says.

Joanne Bratta, director of St. Mary's Services, says Team Cathy Lou's Angels meets daily at lunch to talk about changes.

"I can see these talks have inspired the entire team to make changes, including yoga and trainers to help meet goals," Bratta says.

Team Cathy Lou's Angels' motto is "We are small, but mighty!"

"This team is committed and members feel accountable to the others in meeting our goals," Bratta says. "Whether we win or lose this competition, everyone feels like a winner in that they have conquered the most difficult challenge, which is starting a lifestyle change."

CellTrak Technologies Inc 2 Team Straight Outta CellTrak captain Kym Malkin supports her team with food and exercise maintenance.

"We discuss progress and obstacles in team meetings," she says. "Everyone has fun with the points to hold team members accountable. Some people are looking slim and I am so proud of them all."

Team Straight Outta CellTrak hosted its own healthy culinary competition, which resulted in sharing healthy recipe ideas.

Your At Work Challenge quote of the week: "In Africa we have a saying, 'If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.' " Robin Jones Gunn