This One’s Gonna Take Some Work
I find it really startling that I am not the only one around who tends to put weight on in the winter. And I find it equally astonishing that I am not the only one who needs some kind of external motivation.
So, it seems that we’re going back to the beginning: back to the original reason I started this blog. But this time I’m taking you with me.
I’m starting work, right now, on some kind of contest that we can use to do the following:
- lose weight
- motivate each other
- win prizes
- trash talk
But setting that infrastructure and the rules up is going to take some work, and it’s not ready. So, meanwhile, you can help me shape this contest by answering the questions I’m trying to answer myself:
- How would you like the competition matchup to work?
- How should we set up who competes against whom?
- Each person competing, individually, against me
- Each person competing against one other person each week
- Two teams competing against each other
- Some other interesting way
- Should the contest go for a certain period of time or until you reach your goal weight, or something else?
- There will be an entry fee. Specifically, to be in the competition you’ll have to make a donation to my Boston Marathon LiveStrong account. I’m thinking $50. Are you cool with that or would that be too much?
- Also, to play, you’ll need to put up a prize to go in the prize pool. I’m trying to decide whether that should be money or some cool item you will provide. Money’s easier, stuff is more fun. Got a strong opinion on this?
- Got any other ideas on how this game ought to be played?
- Would you be more interested in playing if there were a t-shirt and / or other swag?
For those of you who haven’t been with the blog too long, this is not the first time I’ve done a big group weight loss challenge. Check out the B7 Challenge from 2006 to get an idea of what this might (or might not) be like.
Even if you don’t have strong opinions on the 6 questions above, leave a comment if you’re interested in participating, to give me an idea of the scope of this project.
Comment by Rob W | 02.16.2012 | 10:01 am
Hey FAtty. I think it sounds like fun and a great idea. I think the $50 is a hair steep…maybe $35…just thinking that maybe more people would get involved if it were a little less. But, then again, can you put a price on improving your health??
Comment by Joe in San Diego | 02.16.2012 | 10:04 am
Try percentage of weight loss to normalize the progress. Biggest percentage wins.
If the prizes are really good, how do you certify the weight loss from people around the world?
Comment by Mike | 02.16.2012 | 10:04 am
I’m interested in it but have a problem of not enough weight to lose unless there were some scaled weight-loss criteria instead of straight numbers. I was joking with friends this weekend that I was overweight by a whopping 2 lb, but was still breaking trail and running away from everyone.
I could see stretching it up to 5-6lb, but if you allow people like me doing that then you open the door to sandbaggers.
In conclusion, I have no idea and should probably be ignored.
Comment by Brian | 02.16.2012 | 10:11 am
I think this is a great idea. I started on a local “Rob’s Big Loser” contest 4 weeks ago to start a journey to get healthier. I’m already down over 12 lbs, and working my way to the Stars and Stripes Challenge in May!
1. @ 2. I’m not sure I have any preference on
3. I’d set a set time. 12 weeks puts you to May at this point, which should be prime season for riding in most places.
4. I like this entry fee. It’s enough that most folks will be serious about it.
5. I’d do prizes, maybe even signed Fatty stuff if you can swing it. Maybe make a logo “like the Clysdale in a “Big Loser” measuring tape squeeze.
6. I’d go with body fat % instead of pure weight. Pure weight will inspire folks to do very unhealthy things (like fast for weeks on end) just to win the prize(s). I’d also go with smaller prizes if possible so more people feel inspired to enter and maybe win.
You are definitely inspiring to many of us that realize that the journey to health is an attainable goal!
Comment by kyle. | 02.16.2012 | 10:20 am
so i’ve lost 10 pounds these last six weeks for nothing? i should have waited since i don’t have much more to go to my goal.
Comment by Kathryn | 02.16.2012 | 10:27 am
I’m down! In the last few weeks of pregnancy and will appreciate the motivation.
Comment by Biene-Munich | 02.16.2012 | 10:31 am
I’d like to take part but at the moment couldn’t come up with an entry fee of more than 20$. I like the idea of stuff instead of money for prices, I’m sure I could find something, maybe a German/Bavarian specialty.And I’d prefer a fixed time frame, for example lent, that would start next Wednesday and I had plans for that anyway.I’m looking forward to see this take shape!
Comment by Keith Friesen | 02.16.2012 | 10:43 am
I’d love to participate. Money for the entry fee would be a challenge for me – but I am fine in not winning any prizes. So maybe a 2 tiered setup – those who pay the fee get the prizes, and those who just want to join in for the sake of losing weight. I really could stand to lose 30 lbs and would love the motivation from other cyclists.
Comment by KM | 02.16.2012 | 10:44 am
I’m definitely in…I just am not sure to what level. I guess, Fifty bucks seems reasonable for an entry fee but 30-35 could get more folks involved. How do to the competition is where I’m stuck. Creating teams could be fun and then rotating the teams against each other each week and the team with the greatest amount of weight lost percentage wise wins. Do bracket style competition, after all March madness looms.
OR it could be individual against each other with a weekly match-up a la Thunderdome “Two men enter one man leaves.” I’m not wild about this idea b/c if I end up against some large person they could easily outdo my percentage.
Maybe the competition could utilize one of the GPS web-based programs (Endomondo or Track my Run/ride) and use those as a method to keep folks honest? Although I use Endomondo and I know folks cheat and enter workouts that they don’t do. I’m just spit-balling here. Either way I’m in….mostly.
As for awards, Fatty you’re the king of getting cool stuff but if I can offer my two cents, I’m partial to a Fay Cyclist kit from Twin Six as one of the prizes. I’ve never been able to pull the trigger on a kit due to overall expense and I end up buying my local club’s kit instead each year. But I still want one…eventually.
Comment by Laguna Bum | 02.16.2012 | 10:50 am
I’m in. I’d be happy to pay $50. What ever structure is fine. I’d be thrilled to gain some motivation to lose this extra 20 pounds I’m hauling around.
Comment by Dave T | 02.16.2012 | 10:54 am
Sounds great I think a sliding scale on the entry, pay what you can afford would work best. I’m with Joe in San Diego percent weight loss is the best way to measure it. Everyone competing against each other sounds best. Setting an end date vs a goal would motivate me more I guess. It would be nice to have several intermediate dates with small prizes for the person who losses the most at that time. Each of us putting up a prize sounds cool but I’m not sure others would appreciate my fine collection of 70’s and 80’s cycling gear that would be the first thing I would let go of. A cool tee shirt would be a very nice motivator.
Comment by mykill | 02.16.2012 | 11:03 am
I’m in! I’ve lost about 55lbs so far and have about 20 more to go… i could use a nudge off this plateau.
I think my only opinion is on #3, definitely a preset time.
Comment by Ron in Texas | 02.16.2012 | 11:10 am
Hey Fatty–I need the motivation to get back on the bike. I think the percentage of weight is a good idea, I think actualy “pay what feels right” is probably a good rate–the economy stinks right now. Maybe age brackets is a good route to take for organizing. Someone had a good point about how to verify, but hopefully folks would be honest enough. Should definitely be time-boxed–12 weeks is good to get results without it getting old. My 2 cents.
Comment by The Utah Attorney General's Office | 02.16.2012 | 11:12 am
Sounds like an illegal gambling scheme in violation of Chapter 25 of the Utah Code to me.
Comment by Dave | 02.16.2012 | 11:27 am
I’m fat. And interested in not being so. Help me help myself, Fatty!
Comment by jt | 02.16.2012 | 11:27 am
FatMan,
I’m in.
1) I think % of body weight lost rather than absolute pounds lost.
2) Each person vs you sounds fun, but also sounds like everyone is against you, which is kind of harsh. The “different person each week” sounds interesting but really hard to manage. The teams approach doesn’t feel personal enough. I choose each person against you.
3)certain period of time, 2-3 months.
4)entry fee keeps everyone honest and invested. $50 works for me.
5)stuff is always better than money. but how do you know my stuff is all that interesting? (e.g. a virgin disk from the USA Ultimate Frisbee Club Championships)
6)nope
7) t-shirts are always welcome.
Comment by Amdrew B | 02.16.2012 | 11:35 am
Dear Skinny Guys Who Want To Be Included:
You are already participating in a contest. It is called “bicycle racing” and you are winning. Give the fat guys a chance in their own category.
From:
Clydesdale Extroadinaire
Comment by Sean Kelly | 02.16.2012 | 11:37 am
Hey Fatty,
I think we should have teams representing charities we can enroll in. People will do more good things and get fit. ASPCA, Susan Komen Foundation, Etc.
Group competition with a weekly metric. Some of us are fit, some not, most in between. We all love the bikes so let’s make that the metric. 1 Mile dead sprint on flattest road around with whatever warmup you want to do. Easy enough for most and definitely measurable, especially for those of us with the Garmins.
$35 or even $25 seems appropriate, maybe more if we get some sweet Twin6 swag. If it’s $50 then how about half going towards Boston Livestrong and the other half going to your team charity? Might be overly complicated but still a fun way to group us.
Prizes? Stuff, specifically funny stuff. You’ve got a great sense of humor so I’ll leave that one in your more than capable hands.
Looking forward to this!
Comment by yannb | 02.16.2012 | 11:40 am
1. % of body weight
2. maybe try to go against people that are geographically close by. Might be easier to motivate.
3. definitely period of time
4. $50 works for me too.
5. no real opinion on this. Maybe something like a secret santa. Keep the prize max at $10-15.
6. nope
7. twin six tshirt?
Comment by monkeywebb | 02.16.2012 | 11:43 am
I’m in. You got me to lose a bunch of weight in the B7 and despite being in better shape now than when I started that, I could use some assistance once again.
1+2. My head starts spinning with the coordination necessary to do anything other than you against the world. Since you’re heading it up, you get to decide how complicated it is.
3. I think time limited works best. Three years ago I challenged my brother with no time limit. We’re still waiting.
4. $50 is fine with me. It may get rid of some of the non-comitted. However, as others pointed out, a lower threshold would bring more people in. Once again, you’re the boss.
5. I agree with your sentiment that stuff is more fun, but money is easier to manage. I would encourage you to somehow make this happen up front rather than at the back end. I’m still waiting for a few wagers from people who have failed to pay up for things in the past, and how many people failed to pay you in the B7? My guess is quite a few.
6. I like body fat percentage, perhaps combined somehow with weight loss, but I don’t know how to get it honestly, accurately, and innexpensively. If I recall in the B7 some people probably didn’t set aggressive enough goals and therefore beat your super aggressive goal.
7. I love swag! A t-shirt or something really reminds you that you’re a part of something, especially if there is a high entry fee.
Regardless of what we say, your creativity will produce something great.
Comment by Christopher in Santa Teresa | 02.16.2012 | 11:50 am
Fatty,
I recommend that you have categories, like there are in racing. Instead of age divisions you set them by starting weight. Someone starting at 171 (or 190 as is my case) can’t fairly compete with someone starting at 200 or 220, in either pounds or percent. Categories for teams and individuals. I recently read an article that suggested that teaming up with someone also trying to lose weight showed that those teamed in the pursuit lost more than individuals. Put a time limit on it. Maybe two months. $50 is a bit steep for me. Prizes are always cool. Fat Cyclist Kits!
Comment by Steven | 02.16.2012 | 11:56 am
I think that the contest should be run on % of body weight. Personally, I pay attention to body fat, but I think that would lean the contest in favor of the larger people (like me) rather than a roadie trying to get to race weight.
It’d probably be easiest to have everyone compete against everyone but maybe the top people from each week can compete against each other for a special distinction?
$50 seems pricey but it’s hard to say until we see what kind of prizes we’re working for. I think everyone getting a prize for a big pool would be cool, maybe then at the end there could be a type of drawing based on the amount of weight that was lost or weeks that were one (something for motivation).
T-shirts would be cool but everyone should order their “goal” size for some extra motivation.
Comment by Chris Engle | 02.16.2012 | 12:01 pm
I’m currently stuck at 238-240lbs. Want to hit 220 by my MS 150 RIDE in June. I would be in, I think to entry fee is a little steep.
Comment by Kristina | 02.16.2012 | 12:08 pm
I would definitely be in!
1. Not sure what this means compared to number two.
2. I like the ‘each person competing against one other person each week’ option. It sounds the most interesting!
3. Certain amount of time. Definite deadlines are probably best.
4. $50 sounds good. It should be enough that it actually matters.
5. Not a strong opinion, but stuff is definitely more fun!
6. Just another endorsement for percentages vs. straight poundage.
7. Yes! Swag is fun!
Comment by Steph | 02.16.2012 | 12:24 pm
IN! This might even cause me to start logging my food again (SIGH!).
1. How about competing on percentage of goal? That would even the field for all losers.
2. I like the charity team idea with the fee split between LiveStrong and the other charity. I did this with my 100 MTN event last year and it was great because I got to support LiveStrong and the Prostate Cancer Foundation. : )
7. I don’t care about prizes, but I might be able to help out if you go that route.
Comment by Chase | 02.16.2012 | 12:46 pm
I’m in but don’t have that much weight to lose…maybe 10 pounds…I’m good with % body fat.
Maybe $35 entry fee?
Comment by Rob L | 02.16.2012 | 12:53 pm
I’ve called the Duke Brothers, were ordering all available Avocado crops Fatty! No Easy win this year!
Comment by ClydeinKS | 02.16.2012 | 12:58 pm
I’m in, as I easily have a good 50-60lbs to spare. $35-$50 sounds fair, I think % of weight loss would be the easiest measure for the masses. I’m on board with whatever you plan and thank you for bringing up the incentive!
Comment by Elisabethvi | 02.16.2012 | 12:59 pm
I’d be in. Entry fee is fine because proceeds would go to a great cause. I love t-shirts related to events I’ve participated in. I don’t need prizes, but if something fun comes along it would be an added bonus.
Comment by fult23 | 02.16.2012 | 1:02 pm
I would love to participate! I don’t want to keep scrolling up and down the screen to answer each question (any guesses why I am fat?), but I will say that 50 buck is steep, but will keep people serious. Prizes are great but keep them under $50 total to avoid the value of cheating. Set-up the comp in divisions, but do it by people’s goals for losses. All people wanting to lose 20 pounds compete against each other, the person who loses the most in (x) weeks is the winner. Same goes for people wanting to lose 10, 5, and so on.
Comment by Mike | 02.16.2012 | 1:10 pm
How about percent *of* body fat?
Example:
- Skinny guy at 10% BF drops to 7%: 30% loss
- Fat guy at 30% BF drops to 20%: 33% loss
Comment by patty | 02.16.2012 | 1:21 pm
I’m interested — though the $$ depends on what the challenge is…? Maybe logging specific distances? Losing specified numbers of pounds doesn’t work so well, mostly because men lose much faster than women. But how about distances on the bike? Maybe for a couple of weeks or a month — choosing a distance we all need to ride? Maybe we need to login using MapMyRide or some similar device? Dunno. But I’m interested.
Comment by sknits | 02.16.2012 | 1:22 pm
I’d totally be in for this. I’m trying to get in better shape for my upcoming roller derby season, and bike commuting once the ice is gone.
1. % of weight loss sounds good. Or % of goal, although that might be more difficult to work out in week-to-week challenges.
2. Person v. person, switching up each week would be neat…the prize for “winning” a week could be an additional entry into the prize pool, and losers would just not get that extra entry, but would still go on to try and “win” their next week, rather than being knocked out of competition
3. A certain period of time definitely seems easier to manage
4. As a semi-broke grad student, $50 is steep to me. Maybe have a couple different tiers between, say, $20 and $50, where buying in at a higher tier gets you additional prize pool entries?
5. Stuff, for sure! That way people who maybe don’t have a ton of money to give away as a prize, but have a skill or live somewhere interesting could make/do something, or pick up an inexpensive but cool local thing, etc.
6. Maybe have guest posts from participants every so often (weekly? I guess it would depend on the length of the contest), on this site or wherever the contest ends up based if not here, with workout tips, or recipe ideas, or other motivational/helpful things?
7. A tshirt or other swag would definitely be awesome, but I don’t think it would change the likelihood of me participation. My personal dealbreaker/maker would be cost.
Comment by Marco | 02.16.2012 | 1:27 pm
I would be all over this. I’m trying to lose weight for all the century rides I’m doing this year.
1. % of weight lost
2. Each person against you
3. Period of time
4. I could handle $50, but I agree that a slightly lower amount might get more people to do it.
5. Stuff
6. Not really
7. “I lost more weight than Fatty and all I got was this stupid t-shirt”.
Comment by dvhansen | 02.16.2012 | 1:30 pm
don’t have much more to add than those that have already spoken up but it may make sense to tier the entries so like-bodied cyclists go against each other. for example, i’m a certified clydesdale at 226 right now but know i could get to below 200 with the right motiviation. problem is that my percentage could be much greater than that of a lower weight. two cents…
Comment by Liz | 02.16.2012 | 1:35 pm
This is a great idea. I don’t have strong feelings about entry fee but a sliding scale sounds good to me. I am in a position to pay $50 now, but that was not always true so I think it is good to give everyone a chance. I think the contest should be about 12 weeks long, we each set a weight loss goal at Week 1 and the results are measured based on percentage of weight loss goal attained at Week 12.
Love the idea of us kicking in the prizes. With all these prizes, there can be lots of crazy categories so there are more chances for everyone to be a winner. Also love the idea of the Twin Six guys creating a custom t-shirt.
I guess this means I will not be trying “Cake Shakes,” a recipe I just discovered in a book I recently read, in the near future . . .
Comment by Skippy | 02.16.2012 | 1:38 pm
Keith-freisen made a good suggestion with the two tier approach !
Once again i am in a cleft stick as the ski touring dropped me to 81kg today and over indulgence may get me up a few kg for the weekend !
Body % loss is the way to go for the majority since good health is what people are seeking . Not sure how all would check their body fat % if that route was on offer ?
Could you offer splitting of % of donated monies to your main charity and a % to a charity of choice with you selecting say 10 that are international ?
Comment by Jeffy | 02.16.2012 | 1:39 pm
Loved B7, but failed to keep it off, so I’m in. I need to lose 15 or so to make life better for my reconstructed knee.
Liked the idea of connecting with nearby participants – community building amongst the fans! Liked the idea of entry fee for prizes, no fee (although I’d say a small one of $5-10 would be better) for no prizes.
I suggest asking some folks to volunteer to tackle some logistics if it would free you up to focus on getting good prizes or other activity. Depending on the size/frequency of the work, I’d volunteer.
Thanks as always! Jeffy
Comment by SeanB | 02.16.2012 | 1:42 pm
Fatty,
Yes, Yes, YES!!! I need a group motivation to lose weight to get ready for triathlon season. $50 might be a bit steep, but the prizes are always top-notch. I’m okay with t-shirts, water bottles, and a signed copy of your book (which I wanted to get, but then was distracted by other shiny new things) Percentage weight-loss is always a good equalizer to measure by. And there has to be a deadline, otherwise a slacker like me won’t have anything to work towards.
Just my 2 cents. Sean
Comment by Lulea | 02.16.2012 | 1:44 pm
I am very interested. I propose % of body weight (not all of us have ways of measuring % of boby fat). $50 seems steep, maybe $25 since you are wanting people to donate prizes as well. I like the idea of two or more teams so there is some comraderie along with competition. A time frame like 2-3 months would be helpful. I don’t care if there is swag or prizes. I am more interested in the accountability each week to others and the competition motivation.
Comment by Derek | 02.16.2012 | 1:46 pm
I want in and am chomping at the bit. Maybe I should chomp on some cookies or something until this starts to have more to loose…wait…that’d be dumb wouldn’t it?
Comment by Steve | 02.16.2012 | 2:03 pm
I’m in. I had a really good start to riding season last year when we had a little tornado here in Joplin that ruined normal riding patterns. Then winter came and I ate like a pig throughout the holiday season. So here I sit at my highest weight in years. I do agree with several of the commenters that $50 seems somewhat high. I know you will come up with something entertaining. Lets get going.
Comment by Trailer Park Cyclist | 02.16.2012 | 2:28 pm
That post made me hungry. And thirsty. (Burp)
Comment by Rob M | 02.16.2012 | 2:29 pm
I participated in the earlier contest and put all the weight back on in a month or two.
For this contest, I suggest that each participant could decide on their own weight loss goal and go into a category for that goal, maybe in 2 or 5 lb increments.
The person who wants to lose 55 lbs would compete with others in that same category. It seems to me that the person who wants to lose 5 lbs is more likely to participate in this contest.
Donations could be according to the desired weight loss of $1/pound with a $10 min and a $50 max donation. I believe you might even get more donations with a lot more participants.
There would be a real incentive to meet one’s own goal and everyone who really tries should succeed and would, therefore, be eligible for a prize.
This could eliminate the more creative, and temporary, methods of weight loss from the prior contest.
Good Luck, everyone.
Comment by Shep | 02.16.2012 | 2:37 pm
I put together a group on Facebook about a year ago called “Biggest Losers” (so creative and original, I know). We paid a few bucks a week for the length of the show, and every Tuesday we’d all weigh in and post the percentage of weight lost for that week. That way, it would all be more fair. Percentage based rather than actual pounds lost. (I’m 238 and have almost 50 pounds to go, so I’m good either way). As for the buy-in, I’m a survivor and there’s no amount that sounds like enough, but I’m also not rich, so the $50 sounds great, and even better if it includes some sort of Fatty t-shirt or other such swag. As for the length of the contest, I’m still going even though most everyone else has dropped off after a year. I think you need to make a distinct cutoff, and if people want to keep going after that because they haven’t hit their goal, they can do that. Whatever you decide is fine with me, count me in, but there’s my two cents.
Comment by Shep | 02.16.2012 | 2:41 pm
@Rob M There’s no delete button, but if there were I’d delete my post and just copy yours. Great idea on the weight classes. Heavyweights, middleweights, etc… However, I think the donation should be the same all the way across the board. Not just because I’m one of the clydesdales of the group, but because it’s the right thing to do.
Comment by Christina | 02.16.2012 | 2:47 pm
I’d throw $50 at it if it included a “Fat Cyclist- Chub Down 2012″ t-shirt.
I like the idea of competing directly against someone…it would give me much more motivation than the nebulous % of the group. Plus, I’ve really learned to trash talk as of late. Why not put that to good use?
And I love the idea of chipping in prizes…we’re from all over, so why not have a local treat be the prize?
Comment by Paul | 02.16.2012 | 3:06 pm
I would be down. $50 is kind of a lot but probably ok. And stuff is way way way more fun then money. Oh and who doesn’t love shirts, especially if they are Twin Six
Comment by Kukui | 02.16.2012 | 3:08 pm
I’m in, Fatty! I am currently at 264 lbs down from 324 this time last year… Woo-hoo!
I’m for a competition between weight brackets. I know pounds and fat percentages come off in entirely different ways between those who have 15 pounds to lose and those (like me) who have 115 pounds to lose.
Super-Clydesdales – 65-100+ overweight
Clydesdales – 25-64 overweight
The Lucky Ones – 0-24 overweight
I’m totally into paying $50. At my work this year, we had a competition over the holidays to keep beat back the holiday bulge. Just before Thanksgiving we wagered $5 for every pound we wanted to lose by the middle of January. In this case you got your money back if you lost all the weight and forfeited $5 for every pound of your goal you didn’t make.
Comment by MoCo | 02.16.2012 | 3:16 pm
this would be awesome.
I love the idea of divisions/weight classes. Just don’t make them like women’s olympic boxing. :)
Comment by Skitch | 02.16.2012 | 3:25 pm
This is an amazing idea!
Personally, I’m a fan or teams, but any of the options work for me!
I don’t have an answer for this, but it would be nice to have some sort of scale that took into account the fact that people are coming into it with a variety of different weights. Those on the heavier end who are brand new to this, like myself, will find it easier to drop 5lbs than those who are trying to lose those last 5.
The entry fee strikes me as a bit much, BUT maybe that’s good. The fact that it’s significant is motivating and succeed or fail, it goes to charity, which is awesome.
Something cool might need some guidelines, but I think it’s a fun idea!
Swag makes everything better! :D
Comment by Roger | 02.16.2012 | 3:38 pm
I’m in. I’d be happy to pay $50. What ever structure is fine. I’d be thrilled to gain some motivation to lose this extra 20 pounds I’m hauling around.
(Too lazy to think up my own response so I stole this one from Laguna Bum…)
Comment by Nick P | 02.16.2012 | 3:41 pm
I am suggesting some sort of “season” setup where, either individually or as a small team, you compete against another individual or small team each week. Best record after 12 weeks wins, or top 4/8/etc. could move into the playoffs.
This would be like a fantasy sports design. Teams/individuals could trash talk during the week, and it would increase the odds that everyone would get to enjoy at least some victories throughout the season. Divisions could be created based on gender/initial weight/age groups etc.
Comment by roan | 02.16.2012 | 3:57 pm
I dunno, I just ate a large lunch, probably don’t need to eat again this week, just water, thanks.
The contest sounds complicated to set to rules…Rob M’s…kindduh like.
HOWEVER, Fatty…if you match ME to the IT Guy…I’ll win hands down, piece of cake.
My fittest was 5′5″ 167. Would sink to the bottom of pool, Now…Waaa 5′ 4.5″, 177 and 43 years later. BMI is a joke, can still crank out 100+ miles without thinking.
Hummm…but I’m not doing Leadville either. Guess that makes me a scratch.
Go…IT Guy
Comment by Chase | 02.16.2012 | 4:03 pm
I’m most likely in. I could stand to lose ~45 pounds and have yet to properly motivate myself.
I don’t have strong opinions on most part. I’d pay the $50, personally.
Definitely a set period of time.
Prizes are a good motivator, but certainly not necessary
Comment by JR | 02.16.2012 | 4:06 pm
I’m in. As a new-ish rider and a new reader of the blog I’ll defer to Fatty on rules and terms. Whatever it takes for me to lose these last damn 10 pounds.
Comment by Rob M | 02.16.2012 | 4:07 pm
@Shep, thanks for the compliment.
My only logic in suggesting the smaller donation amounts is to bring in more people and more donations.
Your post made me realize that, with my plan, it could be unfair in the distribution of prizes. Maybe, as in the past, for every $5 donation, there is one entry into the contest.
I’m sure Fatty can figure it out.
My compliments to the readers of this blog who are legendary in their generosity with many charities.
Comment by Zimbo | 02.16.2012 | 4:36 pm
I’m in. I like the idea of a leaderboard showing % of weight lost.
Comment by rmullen | 02.16.2012 | 4:38 pm
I recommend a set time limit, with a bonus round however. On a random day anywhere from 8 months to a year after the contest ends, whomever can verify having kept off the most weight gets a prize as well, or at least bragging rights.
Comment by Arizona Guy | 02.16.2012 | 4:49 pm
Everybody sends you a naked picture of themselves today, along with their weight.
In 30 days, they submit a new weight.
The one who has lost the least weight (or gained the most) has their naked fat picture posted front & center on your blog.
There is no winners prize – only negative motivation on this one.
Comment by xas | 02.16.2012 | 5:04 pm
Yo, I came across your blog last year in summer, when I had 211.2 lb. It gave me some motivation and I was able to reduce my weight to 162.8 lb as of now. I don’t need a challenge anymore, but good luck to you guys anyhow! Just wanted to give my appreciation
Comment by Toby M | 02.16.2012 | 5:27 pm
I’m in. I’ve got a lot of weight to lose. Just don’t listen to Arizona guy!
Comment by 3d brian | 02.16.2012 | 5:40 pm
I MIGHT be interested.
$50 plus swag may be too much for me.
I only need to loose 10 pounds or so. I’m not in a huge hurry to loose it before some major photo shoot. I’d be thrilled to loose 2-3 pounds a month the next 3-4 months. I don’t want to go on some non-sustainable quick fix yo-yo diet to win a contest.
I’d love the motivation to be involved in some type of contest but I’m skeptical I’d be in the running for any sort of interesting prize since I’m not planning to do anything extreme – so the expensive “pot” makes it less compelling.
Can you structure it in such a way to appeal to me and those like me who want to loose a little but aren’t going to win any huge loss contest? If say the majority of the prizes were a raffle based on meeting a personal goal then that would be interesting.
Summary:
I’d do that $50 plus if I thought there were a reasonable chance of getting something out of it prize wise and it helped motivate me to loose a little weight in a healthy sustainable way(not silly crash diet), but if it’s a biggest loser type thing it’s hard to get excited to put up money when there is no chance of winning anything.
Comment by Dan | 02.16.2012 | 6:16 pm
Love the idea. Two main thoughts, $50 seems steep to me but I like the idea of a two tiered system that was mentioned somewhere. Second contributing a prize is way better than contributing more money. Can imagine some pretty interesting stuff being contributed.
Comment by Dan.weise | 02.16.2012 | 6:27 pm
Count me in! This couldn’t have come at a better time as I am in dire need of motivation and accountability.
To answer your questions:
1. I like the team approach but reealize this will be a nightmare of record keeping and maintenance. I alos like the idea of creating classes and trying to balance teams with members form multiple classes.
2. weekly matchups team vs. team woudl be fun.
3. A definite time frame is definitely needed, especially for those of us who have much longer roads to tavel in our weight loss journey.
4. $50 is just right to me as it does weed out those with less commitment.
5. Not sure what type of prizes I could come up with so the ease of cash seems better.
6. To be fair it has to be % of weight lost. Additional shout-outs or bonus categories could be for overall highest, fastest to hit goal, etc.
7. Swag is always good, but I’m in with or without it.
Comment by engine | 02.16.2012 | 8:15 pm
I’m interested. Just made the mistake of getting on the scale for the first time in a while. It was first thing in the morning & I was over my all-time nighttime heaviest weight. Perfect timing. I don’t have an opinion on 1-4 & 6. 5 – no $, contribute something to the prize pool. That’ll make it more interesting. 7- swag or t-shirts.
Comment by Maggie | 02.16.2012 | 8:18 pm
I’m in!
Also, I think that deciding who wins based on % of weight lost isn’t quite fair…
If you weigh 115 pounds and only 5 pounds from racing weight, the best you could hope for in the competition would be a 4.3% loss. Even worse, if you’re 200 pounds and 5 pounds away from racing weight, the best you could hope for is a 2.5% loss.
I think the measure should be:
(weight lost)/(initial – goal)
Where the “goal” should either be your ideal weight as calculated by the BMI index for your height, OR the lowest weight you could *safely* attain during the time frame of the challenge. (Which is what… something like 3% of your body weight per month?).
Then there’s no need for weight classes, because everyone has the ability to score between 0 and 100% of goal weight loss (Unless you are one of those freaks who is already at racing weight, because ….. you hate donuts, or something).
Sliding scale for the donations sounds good to me.
Comment by Jenni | 02.16.2012 | 8:33 pm
Love it.
$50 is too steep for me
Love the idea of with your entry fee, you have to send in a very unflattering fat picture of yourself. If you fail to achieve your goal, that picture will be posted front and center. Come to think of it, I think I just motivated myself out of the competition. whoopsy
Comment by jack | 02.16.2012 | 8:36 pm
International players be able to participate fully with maybe an option to donate to their countries livestrong or other cancer charity.
I am keen to enter, I am a fat australian
Comment by Carl | 02.16.2012 | 9:10 pm
I don’t really have a strong opinion on the different options, but I’m in.
Comment by KWD | 02.16.2012 | 9:14 pm
I am up at least 20 lbs over the winter. Just signed up for a race in May. I need external motivation badly.
$50 entry gets you a tshirt and contest entry.
% weight loss wins.
Maybe make some randomly assigned groups so you can have multiple winners.
Comment by Racheal | 02.16.2012 | 9:29 pm
I’m interested! I’ve never been involved in a weight-loss contest but I need some SERIOUS motivation
Comment by Darren | 02.16.2012 | 9:46 pm
I’d love to participate – I’ve easily got 30-40 lbs I could stand to lose, and could use the motivation. $50 sounds fair to me, as it’s going to a great cause.
Comment by Mandy from KS | 02.16.2012 | 9:49 pm
It’sjust me but I’d want cash. I like cash. I have enough stuff already and other peoples stuff doesn’t interest me. If I had cash I could go out to a nice restaurant thus needing to start the process all over.
Comment by Mighty Athena | 02.16.2012 | 10:09 pm
My husband, ClydeinKS, and I were discussing his post and the other witty and snarky posts here and we’ve been thinking…
— maybe it’s not about weight loss for everyone, but training or fitness goals for those who are more streamlined already
–maybe the fee could be $35 for singles and $50 for couples…or the $50 could be paid over time (maybe $25 up front and $25 at the halfway point
–maybe there is a regional contact person (as metioned in other posts) who collects the data to send to you every week
–teams can compete against all other teams – to do that would involve more organization with number of members and goals and such
–stuff is way more fun – the quirkier the better
we are looking forward to getting started – we weigh a lot and i’m not looking forward to my tushee on my saddle…yay! Go team Fatty
Comment by Sluggo | 02.16.2012 | 10:16 pm
I am sooo in. Lets do this thing!!!! My guts bigger than your gut!!
Comment by Will.i.am | 02.16.2012 | 10:36 pm
Sounds like just the accountability I need. Count me in Fatty.
Comment by ?????? | 02.16.2012 | 11:09 pm
?????????????????……
Comment by NWmtnBiker | 02.16.2012 | 11:29 pm
$50 with tshirt, $30 without.
You against the world.
% weight loss
I think it would be hard for folks to trade things.
Comment by Katyo | 02.17.2012 | 2:32 am
I’m in.. I have a convention this summer and need to get into my dressy wardrobe that doesn’t quite fit.
Comment by bragi | 02.17.2012 | 3:16 am
Sounds really fun. I agree with everything rob m said. 50s fine and stuff more fun.
Comment by Jack | 02.17.2012 | 4:30 am
Id like to be involved. I could do with losing 2-3 (really 8-10) kg
Comment by Jeff Dieffenbach | 02.17.2012 | 5:39 am
The December 2010 contest worked great for me–I lost a bit more than the target 10 pounds. Of course, so did a lot of people, perhaps even a statistically unlikely number of people.
However you set the criteria–pounds lost, percent of pounds lost, BMI reduction–there’s really no way around the honor system. That’s fine with me, but if the prizes get too good, it just means that it’s more like one of your regular donate for a chance to win contests.
I like the idea of different classes–I’m 175+ and would like to get to 160-165. And I really don’t want to be in a class with someone who’s pregnant now but won’t be when the contest is over!
Someone suggested a bonus round 8 months out to reward those who keep it off–love it!
Hmm, guess I should pig out before this thing gets going (that was going to be my strategy for Survivor 5, but I didn’t make it past the application stage).
I wouldn’t mind a $25 entry fee, but would make $50 work. The “donate a prize” provision is interesting, but that puts me on the hook not only for the cost of shipping, but for finding a box, hunting up some tape, and so on. Perhaps you could get UPS to donate free or reduced price shipping using a special code for items sent to a particular address?
In short, however this works, I’m in. Worked for me last time, and I new at the outset that it was “cheatable,” but that’s not me and it was fun charting my weight in a spreadsheet and both virtually and literally watching the pounds disappear.
Comment by Terry | 02.17.2012 | 7:30 am
Group motivation is a great way to lose weight, but I think there should be a reward for maintaining the weight loss afterwards. Losing is great, but not so great when you just put it back on.
Also, maybe a weekly drawing where maybe the top 10% of losers for the week (based on percentage, probably) get entered? What I saw from the Biggest Loser competition at my factory was that after the first 5 or 6 weeks, those who could tell they weren’t in the running basically gave up. But if there were intermediate prizes that were just based on the short term, then even if you have a bad couple of weeks you still have some motivation to get back on the program.
Arguably we all want to raise money for charity, but I’m guessing we all also want to get fitter to stay fitter.
Comment by Shep | 02.17.2012 | 7:44 am
Just a note here: While my heart goes out to those of you who are fighting to lose that last 5 lbs because of the huge difference in weighing 155 and 160, I think this contest would be geared more towards those of us with 20+ pounds to lose. While going from a 30″ waist to a 28″ waist will undoubtedly figure into some future plans of dominating the world, I would think this is more focused on getting people into healthy shape to begin with rather than carving off the last few slices of roast beef.
Comment by Stormin Norman | 02.17.2012 | 8:07 am
Sounds fun. I am down, though, I have a hard time developing challenge rules. Maybe this could be a subjective awesomeness challenge?
Comment by Jase | 02.17.2012 | 8:29 am
I’m game … though the $50 fee seems a bit steep to me too (single dad, cycling habit, etc) …
I could come up with a prize too.
Unsure on the rules, just know I have a goal weight I want to get to this year :)
Comment by MattC | 02.17.2012 | 9:14 am
This just sucks. Once again I’m excluded from all the reindeer games. Dang it…I NEVER get to lose any weight. I must be cursed…
Comment by Mike | 02.17.2012 | 10:41 am
I was talking to Nate from the South Pole last night, and we need to get him involved. It might be difficult but I’m sure sufficient peer pressure could coerce him.
Comment by Keith G | 02.17.2012 | 11:54 am
Yep, I’m interested. I was determined not to gain my Winter 20 this year. And, sure enough, I did. Any motivation help here would be great.
Comment by Clydesteve | 02.17.2012 | 12:03 pm
@MattC – Please Matt, I know you to be a great guy – Don’t taunt!
Sure I am probably in, Fatty.
Comment by Pam | 02.17.2012 | 12:51 pm
I like the weekly prizes/shout-outs for top 10% of biggest losers so everyone can stay motivated. Please make entry closer to $20-$25.
Comment by Dan in Sac | 02.17.2012 | 1:23 pm
Count me in. I will let you all figure out the particulars.
Comment by Dan in Sac | 02.17.2012 | 1:24 pm
MattC, being skinny is it’s own reward. And it’s elusive to me!
Comment by Cali_Lady | 02.17.2012 | 1:25 pm
I’m in!
$45-$50 with a t-shirt, or $25-$30 without a t-shirt sounds good.
Different categories based on starting weight/geographic location.
Teams can help motivate & also compete against each other.
People can submit photos, share tips, recipes, etc./guest posts!!
Prizes are fun and there should be lots of chances to win a little something.
People can contribute fun prizes of any type, not necessarily only bike related.
Should be a set period of time… 12-15 weeks?
Lots of us need a push to stop with the fatty foods and get to the gym!
Thanks Fatty!
Comment by Laura | 02.17.2012 | 2:07 pm
Love to participate! I’ve been to hibernatey this winter. $50 is steep, but it sounds fun!
Comment by DWC | 02.17.2012 | 4:01 pm
I just got involved in a weight loss challenge with some co-workers where the motivation is monetary for not reaching your goal. If I don’t get under 200 lbs by April 28, $200 will move from my wallet to my favorite charity. There’s some good motivation.
Comment by Donal | 02.17.2012 | 4:26 pm
I’m in too.
I like the idea of paying say $25 to enter and then another $25 to charity if you don’t lose a previously committed weight/BMI/body fat target amount within a certain time. You can name and shame results each week on your blog? Maybe you can do a random lottery pick for weekly winners?
I like swag, but could also stump up a personal item as a prize to go into a pool for the weekly winners?
Comment by Yiannis | 02.17.2012 | 4:31 pm
I am in.
$50 is enough for participants to be/get serious about it.
Percentage of weight or target or whatever.
I guess prizes would be good. It will give people something extra.
Teams, individuals, the people vs Fatty, person vs person. I don’t think it really matters, although a straight table (like a league table) should fine and simple.
A t-shirt or other stuff would be fun, too.
But at the end of the day, Fatty you are the man; your blog your rules; you decide.
Comment by Justmaryb | 02.17.2012 | 7:06 pm
I’m in. I think % lost would be best, and 50.00 is just a little steep. Other than that, no strong opinions.. Just waiting to see what you come up with.
Comment by Adam Bowes | 02.17.2012 | 9:13 pm
percentage lost accomodates all shapes and sizes.
maybe keep a spreadsheet or graph of everyones weight.
have a weekly prize for best weekly loss?
then an overall prize for best cumulative transformation?
$50 seems good.
Comment by Heber Chad - ldsphi | 02.17.2012 | 9:21 pm
Team Fatty vs Team ‘The Hammer’. I know she doesn’t need to lose weight, but would make it pretty fun. $50 with t shirt. Picture of Budda riding a bike wearing a FC Kit.
% of weight.
Comment by fatgrrl | 02.18.2012 | 9:32 am
I admit to being one of those people who is actually fat, and was a bit… bemused, perhaps… to see how non-fat Fat Cyclist was compared to me and mine. I’m a certified fathlete. Ten pounds, twenty pounds – seriously that is NOTHING, but still, the concern is cute. I think this is a great idea, and I’d totally be in. 50 bucks doesn’t seem too steep with some swag like a t-shirt. But I think you need to do something a bit more complicated to make the playing field level. Percent of body weight completely favors the people who have less than 20 pounds to lose. If you’re 170 pounds and lose 17 pounds, that’s 10 percent of your weight. If you’re 240, you’d have to lose 25 pounds to beat that person, and that doesn’t seem fair. It pre-discourages me, and my not-so-humble midriff. So, I’d favor classes of weight or Maggie’s formula above.
Comment by Fat Hoosier | 02.18.2012 | 11:00 am
Definitely in! Although $50 could difficult for some people, it definitely is serious motivation. Perhaps some prizes should given via a raffle, with entries into the raffle given for each time a contestant enters their weekly weigh in. Maybe entries lost for lack of progress. Percentage of body weight seems to be the fairest way to compare.
Whatever is decided, it should be fun!
Comment by Fifegnugen | 02.19.2012 | 3:57 pm
I’m in!!
Comment by Andrew | 02.20.2012 | 2:13 am
I was 267 lbs now 247 lbs with at least 27 to go..
I am in, what’s the timeframe?
Comment by TJ | 02.20.2012 | 12:18 pm
I’m in for whatever. Just need some motivation and accountability. Maybe the team concept is good one, then I have people counting on me as well. And T-shirts are always welcomed.
Looking forward to it
Comment by Jenn H. | 02.20.2012 | 4:37 pm
I would love to participate! But I’m a jogger, not a cyclist, though I follow your blog regularly. Would this be a wheels only venture? I love the idea of local connections as well. Spent the last year losing 50 pounds and need motivation for the last 10. I think Fatty swag would be awesome.
Comment by AKChick55 | 02.20.2012 | 11:23 pm
I love this idea! I gained back everything I lost after Austin. Pfft. $50 is to steep for me with all the other things I want to participate in esp. the 100 miles of Nowhere (and MS150, and hopefully LIVESTRONG Davis, Tour de Cure, etc.). My husband is going to ban me from riding my bike if I keep spending so much money doing it. I think % lost is the best and most fair. Swag is awesome, but I’d do it without. I like the idea of a version without swag and a version with or something like that. Maybe I can lose this weight, then some, and keep it off.
Comment by Bryce | 02.20.2012 | 11:46 pm
I am in for $50 with the promise of a payout in swag to keep it interesting. Body fat % works best for all involved in the contest. I like the daily post of losses on facebook or whatever with a link to the contest to promote it to the masses. What better way to get more people involved, reading and fatcyclist to the world? Spread the word!
Comment by Bryce | 02.21.2012 | 12:05 am
I’ve got 40-50lbs to lose before LOTOJA 2012.
Comment by Brian S | 02.25.2012 | 5:03 pm
I’m in for $50