Weighing in: Biggest loser program kicks off in July

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Ebony Nichols
  • 917th Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AFB, LA --  Many adults complain of gaining love handles, spare tires or even thunder thighs after college, marriage or child birth. 

For 917th Wing members, there is now a contest that aids Airmen in achieving their desired weight loss goals through competitive motivation. 

“I didn’t know what the outcome would be at first. It can be intimidating to lose weight, but I am pleased with the amount of people who have had the courage to participate,” said Maj. Lara Rowlands, 917th Wing fitness manager. 

The first of three weigh-ins for the Biggest Loser contest was held July 9 in the 917th Mission Support Group orderly room. Participants will weigh-in again during the August and September unit training assemblies. The final weight (in September) will be subtracted from the initial weight taken (in July). Members striving to be the biggest loser also received a comprehensive diet and fitness screening tailored to meet each member’s individual needs in July. 

Some Wing members lacked the motivation to start a weight loss program before the Biggest Loser was implemented, but now they have a support group and a check point each month to measure their progress. 

“It wouldn’t hurt me to shed a few pounds,” said Maj. Dwayne Slack, 917th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander. “The older I get, the harder it is to lose weight, so I’m hoping the program will motivate me.” 

Participants now have the motivation of winning the contest to lose the weight, in addition to rules and tips on fitness and diet. The fate of the would-be biggest loser is now in the hands of the players. 

“I got some good information to start; now it’s up to me to follow through,” said Major Slack. 

Participants who have the drive but not the know-how can log onto www.fitday.com and correspond with Byron Hardy, at the Health and Wellness Center, who gives individual fitness and eating prescriptions. 

The first, second and third place winners will be announced and receive their prizes during the September UTA. 

If the participants are interested in participating in a future Biggest Loser session, there will be another chance to sign up. 

“Hopefully, there will be enough people interested to form teams to give more support for the players,” said Maj. Rowlands. 

For more information, contact Major Rowlands at (318) 456-9187.