By Dennis Volkert
“Get Fit Challenge” opens Jan. 11 at Doyle Community Center in Sturgis, and continues through March 22.
Time frame for registration and initial weigh-in is 8 a.m.-noon Jan. 11 at Doyle.
Prizes are awarded for overall first- and second-place finishers in male and female categories. Winner in each division receives $300 and a 12-month Doyle membership. Runners-up receive a six-month membership.
Top finishers in 2024’s challenge were Chuck Rickett of Sturgis and Shanna Bercaw of Bronson.
The 2024 contest drew 102 participants, said Mike Liston, director at Doyle. Participation has dropped somewhat in the past few years. Prior to the pandemic, at least 250 people took part each season, on average, Liston said.
It’s the 20th year for “Get Fit Challenge.” The contest was started as a way to help people kick-start weight-loss and fitness goals, a typical new year’s resolution, said Mike Liston, director at Doyle.
Staff members have provided guidance and assistance and help them to stay accountable, he said.
“By requiring a weekly check-in every week and posting results, people are more apt to stick with the program because other people are also watching,” Liston told Sturgis Sentinel.
“Several minor changes have been made over the years, but one thing remains the same: Our goal of helping people set realistic fitness goals, shed a few pounds, feel great about themselves and to help them make fitness a priority in their life,” Liston said.
Doyle staff and personal trainers will provide support and encouragement and strategies to help participants set achievable fitness and weight-loss goals during Get Fit, Liston said.
Additional training options are available, too, including personal consultations, one-on-one training and small-group fitness instruction.
Rules and notes:
Contest is open ages 18 and up. You are not required to be a Sturgis resident or a member of Doyle Community Center.
This is a 10-week challenge, with weekly weigh-in on Thursday, Friday or Saturday during normal business hours.
Each entrant is allowed to miss no more than one weigh-in over the 10 weeks.
Results are based on percentage of weight lost, not actual pounds. No participant’s weight is disclosed.
Standings are posted each Tuesday via email and social media.
Each week, a random drawing for prizes is held.
Final weigh-in: 8 a.m.-noon March 22.
Entry fee: $20. Includes an event T-shirt and a chance for prizes.
Online: www.doylecenter.com
