The Benefits of a Weight Loss Contest in Overweight and Obese College Students

The purpose of this study was to examine whether a weight loss contest would result in changes in body composition in college students. Students were invited to participate in a semester-long weight loss contest. Monthly "weigh-ins" included body weight, body mass index (BMI), percent fat, and circumference measurements. Thirty-nine participants registered for the contest. Only 41% of the original participants attended at least four weigh-ins (n = 16). Those participants who attended at least four weigh-ins attended more education and exercise sessions than the other participants and significantly reduced their weight, BMI, percent fat, waist, and waist-to-hip ratio over the semester-long contest. Percent change in weight was associated with education (r = -. 39) and exercise sessions attended (r = -. 41). In conclusion, campus-based weight loss contests can be successful in promoting weight loss, although additional studies are needed to determine what factors increase adherence and whether such programs promote long-term changes in physical activity and diet.