Fire chief heading local weight-loss challenge based on television show
One of television’s hottest reality shows, the weight-loss challenge “The Biggest Loser,” is the inspiration for a local contest with the same premise. And it may come just in time to help those who set New Year’s resolutions to get in shape to stick to their goals.
Jerry Jensen, International Falls ambulance and fire chief, is organizing teams for the contest, which begins this week. He said he hopes financial and health incentives will inspire the participants to keep the competitive spirit alive through the contest.
“It’s a little competition,” Jensen said. “It helps (participants) get fit and healthier and improves quality of life. That’s what we’re striving for.”
Each participant pays an entry fee of $25, and the three teams with the largest percentage of weight lost will each get a portion of the fees. And if a team slips and gains weight for the week, a $5 penalty will be charged to each member.
The contest started Monday, but Jensen extended registration through Friday to allow more teams to join. Jensen said that members of the community are welcome to join the contest. Jensen said that teams of three, or individuals looking to join a team, can sign up by contacting him at the fire station. An initial weigh-in and signing a contract to join the contest will be required.
The contest will run 14 weeks and will end April 5. Teams will be judged, as they are on “The Biggest Loser,” by the percentage of weight lost as a team. Jensen explained that while each individual will be weighed weekly, only the team’s percentage change in weight will be used to track the team’s progress and determine the winner. Individuals’ weights will be kept confidential, but a witness at the scale will record the pounds of each participant.
Many of the current teams are made of employees of the city, emergency and law enforcement services, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agencies.
Jensen said he got the idea through hearing about the nation-wide 911 Fitness Challenge for public safety employees. And although he liked the idea, out-of-town weekly weigh-ins made him think a local contest would be more practical.
In general, the biggest cause of death for fire department employees is heart attack, of which Jensen said weight plays a part. These statistics inspired him to start the contest and get others involved in improving their health.
Information about the contest explains: “Our workplace is a place where snacks and leftovers find their way to a central location where people can munch all day long. Having team members, as well as opposing team members, watching really keeps your mindless munching at bay. If you are in the competition only for yourself, you will be much more likely to indulge. Being accountable to other people is key to helping your team in being successful.”
Deputy City Administrator Betty Bergstrom joined a team with Jensen and her husband and firefighter, Bruce Bergstrom. She said she hopes through the competition, “I’ll feel better. You always have a better attitude when you feel better.”
