Contestants in both gyms range from college students to seniors. There are women who want to lose pregnancy weight and triathletes who want to feel lighter and stronger on their bicycles. Some are overcoming injuries. Others want to look like models on the cover of muscle magazines. Trainers at both gyms say physical transformation contests provide the structure and knowledge people need to reach their physical goals or discover their ideal body.
Contestants get tips on diet, exercise and weight training.
The Mountain's Edge holds seminars on heart rate and goal-setting. Contests work because they make people accountable, Moore says. Prizes also help. The Triad winner receives a trip to Mexico. Not everyone is as enthusiastic as Moore.