Win by losing: Competition challenges KMC members to get fit

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Scott Saldukas
  • 435th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  KMC members kicked off the third-annual Biggest Loser Challenge Jan. 17 at the Southside Fitness Center with the first round of weigh-ins and fitness assessments.

The event challenges participants to see how much body fat they can lose, while also competing for prizes and the title of the biggest loser.

Forty-one contestants participated in the initial assessment, which included a simple three-step weigh-in process to help document weight loss and body fat percentages throughout the competition.

"We are hoping the Biggest Loser Challenge brings a whole new lifestyle for our competitors," said Staff Sgt. Tamika Robinson, 435th Services Squadron Southside Fitness Center fitness supervisor. "We have individuals who want to lose some weight, but the benefits of creating a healthy lifestyle outweigh a temporary loss."

For an added incentive, six individuals competed for the opportunity to workout with professional trainers.

"We selected six [people] to track for the Spotlight magazine," Sergeant Robison said. "They will have a layout of their stats in the magazine every month. These six will receive training for free two times a week from a certified JFIT trainer."

To earn a spot with one of the trainers, applicants submitted an essay and photo explaining why they would get the most benefits out of working with a trainer. Out of 30 applicants, the top six selectees were: Maj. Alicia Matteson, Master Sgt. Christopher Shaw, Master Sgt. Federico Rojas, Shelia Sellers, Linsie Jonas and Tammy Curnutt.

"About a year and a half ago, I lost my mom due to cancer and diabetes," said Sergeant Rojas, NCOIC, Personnel Programs of the Military Personnel Exchange Program. "After she passed away, I let my health get progressively worse. I needed some help to get me back on track, and I thought this would be one of the best ways."

The sergeant said he was hesitant at the beginning, but thought about his goals and figured the pressure would help him follow through with his commitment.

"My short term goal is to get back into shape and lose weight," Sergeant Rojas said. "My long term goal is to continue what I learn and to pass it on to my family. With my family health history, I need to learn everything I can. They are my main motivators."

While their backgrounds may be different, all of the contestants share the same goal for the competition - develop a healthier lifestyle.
The competition to slim down will last through April 6, with the next monthly weigh-in scheduled for Feb. 14 at the South Side Fitness Center from 8 a.m. to noon.