Losing weight takes winning, workable lifestyle modification Published March 16, 2011 By Steve Hoffmann 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Winners of the "I Lost it at Keesler" weight loss competition were recognized at an awards reception March 10 at the Dragon Fitness Center. Winners are: First place female -- Denise Blankschen, 81st Comptroller Squadron. First place male -- Michael Gelsinger, fitness center recreational aide. Second place female -- Jacqueline Mack, 81st Inpatient Operations Squadron. Second place male -- Ron Mack, husband of Jacqueline Mack. The competition began on Jan. 17 and ran through Feb.28. Personal trainers and a registered dietician from the health and wellness center were on hand to help contestants formulate winning exercise and eating habits. Following an initial weigh-in, contestants monitored their progress with weekly weigh-ins. Winners were determined by percentage of weight lost rather than total weight. The winners offered advice on how to lose weight and develop a healthy lifestyle. "I have lost and gained and lost many times over the years but I think the big thing is to stick with it," Blankschen said. "This is a lifestyle. Pray for guidance and strength, drink lots of water, control your portions and move, no matter how little. Then, live these things forever." Gelsinger recommended, "Consult a trainer if you have very little fitness experience or knowledge. Stick to your diet and exercise program and do not ever look for instant gratification. It takes time and effort to lose weight." "Tell everyone at work that you are dieting," Jacqueline Mack suggested. "This way you are more accountable to yourself and less likely to cheat." "The key to losing weight is finding a partner and motivating each other to stick to it," Ron Mack observed.