Want to shed weight in 2009? Check out Federal Way's ‘Biggest Loser’ contest

With all the holiday treats around, it's no wonder that many of our New Year's resolutions involve weight loss.

The City of Federal Way has some help for those interested in losing weight. The Federal Way Community Center is hosting the second annual Biggest Loser Contest, which features twice-weekly 90-minute sessions with teams and their trainers as well as weekly weigh-ins.

Cost for the program in $259 and only available to Community Center pass holders. The program begins on Jan. 5 and runs for 12 weeks. To learn more, call (253) 835-6900.

Fitness and diets

The resolution to lose weight can mean big business for local fitness facilities.

"On average, it's our busy time of the year," said Ricardo Claborne, manager at Bally's in Federal Way. "People feel guilty for holiday eating."

Of course, the fervor of a resolution often ebbs with time. However, Claborne said that if you can make it past the first three months, you are likely to stick with your goal of losing weight.

"If they stay past March, it's a lifestyle change," he said.

Claborne recommends changing up routines, making it fun and if at all possible, getting a workout partner to help you stay with the program.

Plans at many fitness facilities range from $19 to $39 a month.

Diet pills also become more popular after the first of the year. The GNC store at The Commons mall in Federal Way reports that every January, it sees an increase in the sales of diet aids. Pills like Hydroxycut work well, one employee said. Most of the popular diet aids can range in price from $29 to $79.

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