Why Weight-Loss Challenges Send the Wrong Message

There appears to be a rather widespread notion out there that introducing a bit of competition into the affair may spurn people on to try and lose those "extra" pounds.

In fact, a quick google search on the term "weight-loss challenge" reveals an amazing array of challenges from voyeuristic and sadistic TV shows like the "Biggest Loser" to well-meant workplace wellness initiatives or fund raisers. I am sorry to admit that I recently even became aware of a weight-loss challenge within my own hospital - well intended, but useless in the fight against obesity.

So what's wrong with this idea? Isn't competition a great motivator?

Sure it is - and people will do anything to win a competition - including crazy stuff like starve themselves, exercise till they drop or even (God forbid) pop diet pills, diuretics or laxatives just to win.

All of this is in direct contradiction to a fundamental principle of obesity management: you do not do things to lose weight that you are unlikely to continue doing to keep the weight off.

Most people seem to think that if only they could lose some weight, they will somehow be able maintain that lower body weight in the long-term with less effort.

The reality unfortunately is (and most dieters have experienced this over and over again) that no matter what diet or exercise routine you chose, no matter how slow or fast you lose the weight, no matter how long you keep the weight off - the minute you relax your efforts, the weight simply comes back.

As I have blogged before: obesity is a chronic disease for which we have no cure - only treatments! When you stop the treatment the weight (and any related problem) simply comes back.

By now you will already have figured out the problem with these challenges - unless you are very modest and reasonable about your weight-loss target and are carefully making changes that you can reasonably sustain forever, you are simply setting yourself up for failure.

If you are indeed modest and reasonable - you've already lost the competition to all the crazy folks who'll do anything just to win.

My advise to anyone with a weight problem - the next time you see an invitation to a weight-loss challenge - simply ignore it!

If you really think you will benefit from obesity treatment - seek help from a trained and accredited health professional with experience in weight management - let's put an end to weight cycling!

AMS