And while the challenge hosted by On The Go Fitness in Nesconset was named the ‘Biggest Loser’, anyone that completed this 10-week ‘boot camp’ definitely came out a ‘winner’. In addition to competing individually, each team had added incentive to try just that little bit harder as they were also competing for a charity – the team with the greatest combined weight loss would have $1,500 awarded to that charity, second place would receive $1,000 and third place $500. Team Kelco, sponsored by Kelco Landscaping in East Northport, nominated Little Shelter as their chosen charity. Team members met weekly for their ‘team workout’, nutritional guidance and ‘weigh in’. Weight loss (or gain) was recorded on a huge wall chart for everyone to see. Each week workouts got harder and teams got smaller but the commitment level for those that persevered was extraordinary. It was wonderful to see the physical transformations take place week after week, and the excitement on participant’s faces when they stepped on the scale and saw the numbers go down.

Little Shelter fielded several participants in the contest, and none worked harder than our very own Arleen Leone. At 67 years old, Arleen was the oldest competitor in the challenge, but proving that you can do anything you set your mind to, she showed up with enthusiasm each week to team workout, committed to a weekly personal training session and soon became a regular face at the gym as she mastered the treadmill and weight machines. Losing an astounding 32lbs, Arleen placed second in the women’s contest and received an ‘Honorable Mention’ award at the On The Go Fitness Holiday Party/Biggest Loser Wrapup. And if Arleen’s success wasn’t enough, we were thrilled to hear the announcement that Little Shelter won FIRST PRIZE in the team contest!

While those that participated left each workout exhausted, we know that they’d tell you the end result was well worth it and the rewards were great. If you would like to transform yourself and experience those same rewards, then why not sign up for the ‘Annual Winter Biggest Loser Challenge’. To sign up call On The Go Fitness at (631) 686-5171 or visit www.onthegofitness.com. You’ll be in great company as rumor has it that Arleen has decided to take on the challenge once more!

Little Shelter would like to thank On The Go Fitness for hosting this great challenge, Kelco Landscaping for their generous sponsorship, and our team members for helping us WIN!

Arleen stands proudly with the first place winner in the women’s contest and the first and second place winners in the men’s contest.

Arleen with the people who helped change her life – James Remien and Jay Fields from On The Go Fitness

Little Shelter volunteer Nancy Richy and her daughter Beth Richy celebrate their success with Arleen Leone

Arleen Leone and Jodi Record – happy to finish their first challenge and ready to begin the next