Fittest Loser contest adds Community Challenge
This year a Community Challenge component has been added to the Fittest Loser Contest.
In the Fittest Loser Community Challenge, which officially kicked off last week, area park districts in teams of five compete with one another to lose the greatest percentage of weight in 12 weeks.
The competition is off to a fierce start with some teams already reporting weight loss. The Community Challenge began just in time to put participants to the test on Super Bowl Sunday — a day known for its high-calorie snacking.
Several teams reported using food tracker applications on their smartphones to help them steer clear of the dips. Other teams shared photos of their healthy meals by text message. For many participants, being held accountable by their teammates is the most effective way to keep them on track with their goals.
The teams are implementing workout plans with some teams working closely with trainers at their park districts. Others are starting a new fitness class together. Team Carol Stream has a regular date at the gym.
Team Losing It, from the Des Plaines Park District, is training to participate in a St. Patrick's Day 5K race as a team. The Wood Dale Warriors of Wood Dale and Club Fit Five of Addison begin boot camps this week.
Follow the teams' progress in the Community Challenge as they check in with the Daily Herald each week, and root for your favorite team on the Fittest Loser page on Facebook.
Keep up on the contest
Check out our Fittest Loser page at http://www.dailyherald.com/entlife/health/fittest for the latest stories, plus videos of all the contestants and an interactive map tracking the community teams.