Local Fitness Centers Launch Weight-Loss Contests and Fundraisers

Several local gyms are offering contests and fundraisers with one goal in mind: support the idea of healthy lifestyles and healthy communities.

Made to Move Fitness in Setauket is one of those gyms. It's offering a "Lifestyle Revolution" weight loss contest that runs from Oct. 1 to Dec. 15 in which a donation will be made to Long Island-based nonprofit Friends of Karen for every pound lost during the competition. However Dave Seel, owner, said it's not all about winning.

"The contest gives people the initial motivation to start the program, but it's their discovery of a healthier life and the motivation they get from our team that sustains them," Seel said. "...That's the most important thing, that they discover the joy and freedom of a healthier life."

At in East Setauket, a "Biggest Loser" style challenge is set to kick off on Oct. 3, open to both members and non-members. There's a cash prize and other goodies for the winners.

At , the – a fundraiser for autism awareness that will include food, raffles, a DJ, chair massages and more – is set for Oct. 15.

And at , an Oct. 29 fundraiser event called "Barbells for Boobs" will bring people together for a charity workout to support Mammograms in Action, which provides mammograms and other diagnostic tests for those who can't afford them. Around 300 CrossFit locations will be taking part. But this year holds a little more importance for owner Michael Denicola, whose mother was recently diagnosed with breast cancer.

"We do a lot of fundraisers in cross fit because we like to give back to the community," Denicola said. "It’s that idea of helping others and taking care of yourself."