Cash for Calories Challenge: End Result

At the beginning of January I mentioned some co-workers threw $100 in a pot to get external motivation to lose weight.  The winner was set to win about $1000 at the end of 9 weeks with second place taking $250.  The goal was to have the highest percentage of weight loss in order to make the result fair.  I chose not to enter because I predicted the winner would have about an 8% loss and I didn't want to be pressured to lose over 20lbs in 9 weeks.

I made a good decision because the winner lost 16% of her weight (26lbs)!  She reduced her calories, walked frequently and continued to play volleyball a few times a week.  She stressed that she did absolutely no strength training because she didn't want to gain muscle because then she wouldn't win.  She is looking forward to the next few weeks because she can now add the strength training she wants.

If I wanted to win I would have needed to lose 5lbs a week!  I don't think that is a healthy or sustainable way to do weight loss.  I'm much happier doing this on my own.  And, I'm extra happy I did not lose $100 and instead lost 5lbs.

I also can't wait to see what this week will bring as I enter week 4 of my 20 day workout challenge with this week aboard a cruise ship.  Snorkeling, running, cycling, hiking, swimming here I come!