You can win big by losing weight when you participate in the BAC’s Weight Loss Challenge!
The winners of the first six Weight Loss Challenges are living proof of how far inspiration, motivation and perseverance can take you on your journey to lose weight and get fit.
Sixth Weight Loss Challenge Winners
Grand Prize: Three months free BAC dues and four free personal training sessions
Tied for First place: Lori Grooms, Bronson employee, and Stephanie Stocchiero
Pounds lost: 43
Percent of body weight: 18
Lori had this to say about the WLC, “The WLC has been a great experience. I would recommend it to anyone. To be honest, I was talked into doing the program and doubted my capabilities. The competition and accountability every week kept me motivated and made it fun. I am very pleased with the results. I feel stronger and have more energy now than ever. Most importantly, the WLC has made me a better example for my five boys.”
Stephanie couldn’t be more excited. She says, “Woohoo! I feel great! When I began the WLC in January I was tired and grumpy, both of my knees hurt and even simple chores were difficult to complete. I decided to commit to the twelve week challenge and I'm so thankful I did. Not only do my knees feel better, but also I met a wonderful group of people. The BAC's Weight Loss Challenge rocks! You rock, too, Ryan!”
Second Prize: One month free BAC dues and three free personal training sessions
Second place: Bea Smigielski
Pounds lost: 41
Percent of body weight: 17
“After retiring from 47 years of teaching I needed a good health program. The Weight Loss Challenge was a perfect fit for me. My weight loss has resulted in increased energy and enthusiasm for exercising. I feel a rejuvenation of spirit and well-being. I want to thank Ryan for his patience and encouragement during the twelve weeks of class. He has provided the groundwork for a continued exercise plan,” says Bea.
There was a four-way tie for third place.
Third Prize: Two free personal training sessions at the BAC
Four-way Tie for Third Place: Carolynn Call, Bronson employee
Pounds lost: 15
Percent of body weight: 10
Carolynn says, “As caregivers, my sister and I have a lot of stress and very few ways to connect, just the two of us, so we signed up together. We had a lot of fun and supported each other to take care of ourselves in healthy ways. The WLC was really hard in the beginning. I was very frustrated with not losing weight. Ryan Patterson kept encouraging me and said it would happen. He was so supportive and helped me go outside my comfort zone. Then I realized how strong I was becoming. Before, after a weekend with my 18 month-old granddaughter, I felt wiped out and hardly able to move. Now, I can spend the weekend carrying her around and I feel strong and motivated. I lost more weight than I thought I would have, and gained tons of energy! I love coming to the BAC and can't wait until the next Weight Loss Challenge!”
Four-way Tie for Third Place: Sara Houseman
Pounds lost: 15
Percent of body weight: 10
Sara says,“The physical, mental and nutritional content of the BAC WLC enabled me to gain a whole new understanding of whole health awareness in a memorable manner. The dietary and physical wellbeing lessons will enable me to incorporate those lifestyle modifications into my daily activities. My individual accomplishments were satisfying, but the group camaraderie and dynamics achieved with our trainer, Ryan Patterson, was truly rewording. Much thanks to Bronson Athletic Club for offering this great class.”
Four-way Tie for Third Place: Chris McCowey
Pounds lost: 25
Percent of body weight: 10
“I was mildly coerced into this session of BAC's Weight Loss Challenge by a friend and coworker at Bronson. I signed up at the last minute with minimal expectations of learning a few different exercises and having something to hold me accountable to get ready for a vacation to Mexico. That's exactly what I got out of the deal, and then some! I remember back to week one, feeling like I was going to die doing jump squats, push-ups and wall sits. But twelve weeks later, I feel that I have gained strength, muscle tone, endurance and confidence. Ryan has been GREAT – so supportive and the perfect mix of a good motivator, but not too "in your face" or demanding. It's been a fantastic experience that I will do again in the future and would definitely recommend to others,” says Chris.
Four-way Tie for Third Place: Tina Nadrasik
Pounds lost: 21
Percent of body weight: 10
Tina says, “I enjoyed the Weight Loss Challenge and found that going to my weekly classes allowed me to start off my week in the right mood. I am making healthier choices; I’m not on a diet, just choosing to make better choices about what I am eating. In terms of exercising more, the changing moment for me was when I asked Ryan how to start training for my goal of running a 5K. He wrote down some starting points for me and told me that it didn’t matter how I did it, how fast I went, or how I looked doing it, but to do it to the best of my ability. Once I heard those words, I then had the permission I needed to begin my 5K journey doing it to the best of my ability. I might not be as fast or as graceful as others, but I’m going to do it nonetheless.”
All of the participants combined lost 1,116 pounds!
Fifth Weight Loss Challenge Winners
Grand Prize: Three months free BAC dues and four free personal training sessions
First place: Christine Schuppel, Bronson employee
Pounds lost: 40
Percent of body weight: 25
“I have greatly enjoyed exercising with my co-workers. Working with a trainer helped us push ourselves harder than exercising on our own. I enjoyed getting back into a regular exercise routine so much that I re-joined the health club”.
Second prize: One month free BAC dues and three free personal training sessions
Four-way Tie for Second place: LeAnn Deittrick
Pounds lost: 20
Percent of body weight: 15
“Learning about healthier food choices through the Chris Johnson, On Target Living Nutrition book and seminar, and sticking to the exercise training, helped me feel my best, lose weight and have more energy. I am very grateful to Ryan Patterson and the BAC for running this program”.
Tied for Second Place: Heidi Ertman, Bronson employee
Pounds lost: 17
Percent of body weight: 15
“When I started the BAC’s Weight Loss Challenge, I never imagined that I would be this successful. In 2002, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and had gained weight during treatment. I know I was using my situation as an excuse. This program gave me the jump start I needed to live a healthier life and be an active participant and role model in my girls’ lives."
Tied for Second Place: Glenda Fouch
Pounds lost: 23
Percent of body weight: 15
“The Bronson Weight Loss Challenge has been such a positive experience. I have been overweight for 20 years and I have tried every diet on planet earth! My trainer, Ryan, adapted the workout routine to my fitness level and provided positive feedback. I am looking forward to participating in another WLC”.
Tied for Second Place: Randy Sielheimer
Pounds lost: 22
Percent of body weight: 15
“I never thought I could lose this much weight in such a short period of time. I look forward to my workout everyday now because I know it will produce positive results. I did discover two unanticipated rewards: I can now get into my old bird hunting pants. Grouse and pheasants beware! I'm also stronger now. Being able to pull a heavier bow now means I can crank up the arrow speed giving me many more options deer hunting”.
Third prize: Two free personal training sessions at the BAC
Tied for Third Place: Laura Depreno (Bronson employee) and Donna Sielheimer
Pounds lost: Laura and Donna each lost 15
Percent of body weight: 7.5%
“This program was just what I needed. I'd been faithfully exercising for years but never saw the scale move much. I knew I needed a lifestyle change and that's exactly what the On Target program taught me. I never felt like I was on a "diet" with this program. I just started making healthier choices that benefit me and my entire family. I feel great. Ryan's targeted exercises have really strengthened me. I have more energy and don't feel like I need a nap every afternoon. I will carry the benefits of this program with me for the rest of my life”. - Laura Depreno
Fourth Weight Loss Challenge Winners
Grand Prize: Three months free BAC dues and four free personal training sessions
Tied for first place: Donna Schuring, second time WLC winner
Pounds lost: 28 lbs
Percent of body weight: 15.5 percent
Donna has lost a total of 93 pounds in the past two Weight Loss Challenges!

“I have struggled with my weight for the past 15 years. I had no energy or will power to stick with exercise and diet. This all changed drastically for me. In the past two WLC programs, I have lost nearly 100 pounds and I could not be happier! I feel like a brand new person. My energy and ambition are at all time highs, and my motivation has also become greater than ever before. When I started the program I could not do one pushup, or run for 30 seconds without stopping. Nearly 100 lbs later I am running 10k races and can do more than 100 pushups! Ryan does a wonderful job incorporating and tailoring exercise routines for each person. The WLC is the best program I have ever joined. I cannot say enough good things about it. It truly has made me a healthier and stronger person. For that, I thank Ryan and the BAC for making my dreams come true.” – Donna Schuring
Tied for first place: Julie Callaway
Pounds lost: 35
Percent of body weight: 15.5 percent
“After losing my father to lung cancer two years ago, I decided I needed to find myself again. As a former college swimmer and mother of five, I weighed more in June 2010 than ever before. My back and knees hurt, I had no energy and felt preoccupied with my weight. During the first seminar, we were told you needed to have a “why” in order to finish well. Scared to death but committed, I started this journey. After three weeks my old competitive self started to emerge and drove me each week. I lost inches I never want to see again and turned fat into muscle. I have energy now and the pain in my lower back is gone. Thank you Ryan for an awesome program.” – Julie Callaway
Second prize: One month free BAC dues and three free personal training sessions
Three-way Tie for Second place: Shauna Schrader, Gary Stewart and Kerry Tapper
Pounds lost: Shauna lost 25 pounds; Gary and Kerry each lost 20 pounds
Percent of body weight: 11 percent
“I am thrilled I decided to take the WLC! It has been an amazing journey and transformation in my life. All aspects of good health are included in the program including physical, mental and dietary. I have never stuck with a program for more than a couple of weeks, but this challenge helped me get going, stay focused and be accountable for my own good health and success! I feel so much better now that I’m starting on the path to continued good health – and smaller jean sizes!” – Shauna Schrader
Third prize: Two free personal training sessions at the BAC
Tied for Third Place: Susan Haught (Bronson employee) and Sally Mulder (Bronson employee)
Pounds lost: Susan lost 21 pounds, Sally lost 15 pounds
Percent of body weight: 8.5 percent
“The BAC Weight Loss Challenge has been a great experience! Even the smallest changes make the biggest difference. I looked forward to the next group workout every week! No matter what your reason for joining the challenge, it will far exceed your expectations. You gain so much more than weight loss. I have gained more self-confidence and the knowledge needed to stick with the changes that I’ve made. I encourage everyone who has been thinking about it to do it. It is so worth it and I can’t wait to join the next one!” – Sally Mulder
The participants of the fourth WLC lost a combined total of 1400 pounds!
Third Weight Loss Challenge Winners
Grand prize: Three months free BAC dues and four free personal training sessions
First place winner: Donna Schuring
Pounds lost: 60
Percent of body weight: 25 percent
"The Bronson Weight Loss Challenge (WLC) helped me stay committed to living a healthier lifestyle, which ultimately led to a significant weight loss. The WLC was a first-class program and I am so thankful to have been a part of. The trainers, Ryan and Sarah were wonderful! They tailored each workout to everyone in the group, regardless of their age or fitness level. I couldn't be happier with my results. I highly recommend joining the WLC to anyone who wants to be healthier, regardless of weight. It is a life changing experience. Thank you to everyone involved, especially Ryan and Sarah. I cannot wait to start the next challenge”. – Donna Schuring
Second place prize: One month of free BAC dues and three free personal training sessions
Three-way tie for second place: Jen Bussies, Pam Grosevnor and Shawn Sieplinga
Pounds lost: 23
Percent of body weight: 10.5 percent
“When my friend asked me if I would be interested in joining the WLC at the BAC with her, I was super excited and motivated. I thought this would be just what I needed to jump start my weight loss. Little did I know, not only did I lose weight, but also made positive changes in my life that will live on with me. The nutritional information that I learned was outstanding! It takes me a little longer at the grocery store though since I now read the labels of everything that goes into my cart. I can do all the exercises at home on my own. I would encourage anyone wanting to make a positive change in his or her lifestyle and diet to join this challenge”. – Shawn Sieplinga
Third place prize: two free personal training sessions
Five-way tie for third place: Wendy Ballett (Bronson employee), Patricia Coy, Susan Fall, Amy Schwartz (Bronson employee) and Eric Schwartz
Pounds lost: Wendy, Patricia and Susan each lost 15 pounds; Amy and Eric each lost 17 pounds
Percent of body weight: 9 percent
“The WLC was a great experience. The previous success stories motivated me to take the challenge myself. I came to look forward to the challenging group workouts every week. The nutrition and workout information encouraged me to make dietary changes that would give me better health and more energy at the end of each day. The WLC has equipped me with new habits that I hope to have forever. Thank you to Bronson for allowing us to use our wellness benefit toward such a great program!” – Wendy Ballett
The participants of the third WLC lost a combined total of 1,225 pounds!
Second Weight Loss Challenge Winners
Grand prize: Three months free BAC dues and four free personal training sessions
First place winner: Christy Moore (Bronson employee)
Pounds lost: 35
Percent of body weight: 15.5 percent


“I loved the Weight Loss Challenge at the BAC! I appreciate that Bronson gives its employees the opportunity to fund participation using the wellness benefit. I really enjoyed working out with my Monday morning team. The workouts were challenging and a great way to start off each week. It was great to see results while using our body weight rather than lots of equipment.”
Second prize: One month free BAC dues and three free personal training sessions
Second place winner: Emily Mitchell
Pounds lost: 30
Percent of body weight: 13 percent
“I’m very happy and proud of the progress I made while taking the Bronson Athletic Club Weight Loss Challenge. After seeing the results of a friend who participated in a previous Challenge firsthand, I was highly motivated to join. I have struggled with the weight I gained following the birth of each of my three beautiful daughters and this was just the program I needed to set me in motion. I feel healthier and have more energy throughout the day. Once I set a goal for myself, I truly enjoyed my weight loss journey. My trainer Brian was wonderful in teaching me nutritional information and provided the right encouragement during the workouts. Thank you to the Bronson Athletic Club program, family and friends. I look forward to continuing my weight loss journey.”
Third prize: Two free personal training sessions at the BAC
Tied for Third Place: Michele Serbenski (Bronson employee)
Pounds lost: 20
Percent of body weight: 10 percent
“The BAC Weight Loss Challenge Program is a great opportunity to jump start your personal exercise program. The exercises can be adjusted to fit your personal needs and fitness levels. Another bonus is that you make new friends during the group workouts.”
Tie for Third Place: Charles Carlton
Pounds lost: 33
Percent of body weight: 10 percent
“I started working out in 2003 but didn’t make any real progress towards losing weight. I worked out hard for three to four hours per day five times per week and my weight just yo-yoed up and down. The BAC’s Weight Loss Challenge broke the yo-yo effect by helping me view the weight management process in a new light. By starting with exercise and adding nutritional changes in slowly, the program gives you all of the pieces of the weight loss puzzle. The accountability of keeping a food log and the weekly weigh-ins also helped me make better food choices. Talking with my trainer about how and why I selected various foods really drove home the point that what you eat plays a large role in your weight management and that exercising improves your overall health.”
First Weight Loss Challenge Winners
Grand prize: Three months free BAC dues and four free personal training sessions
First place winner: Nancy Carter
Pounds lost: 43


After her husband brought home a flier about the BAC’s Weight Loss Challenge, Nancy knew this was exactly what she needed to lose weight and get into shape after having two children. “I love how this program makes you accountable every week”, says Nancy. A weekly weigh in, daily food log and personal training sessions are key components of the program. “Ryan, the personal trainer, has been very encouraging, yet challenging throughout this whole process. His workouts are demanding and he pushes you to your limit each week. I not only lost weight, I gained strength, energy and the desire to be healthy. Thank you Ryan and the Bronson Athletic Club for helping me reach my fitness and nutrition goals! I look forward to joining the next session of the Weight Loss Challenge and continuing my weight-loss journey.”
Second prize: One month free BAC dues and three free personal training sessions
Second place winner: Jeff Dufon
Pounds lost: 38
Jeff was no stranger to struggles with weight gain and related physical issues. For years, every time he went to the doctor, the visit resulted in a lecture about losing weight. “I joined the BAC's Weight Loss Challenge and in 12 weeks I lost nearly 40 pounds,” says Jeff. As a result of losing the weight, Jeff’s blood pressure medications have been reduced and the knee pain that kept him from walking and running is gone. “Ryan Patterson is a great motivator. Our small group has enjoyed working out with him at our weekly training sessions. When I saw my doctor last week he was very happy that I chose to lose weight properly by eating right and exercising – and no lecture.”
Third prize: Two free personal training sessions at the BAC
Tied for Third Place: Linda Kolawski
Pounds lost: 30
Linda enjoyed the BAC’s Weight Loss Challenge almost as much as what she lost – thirty pounds and four inches to be exact. “The seminars and nutrition advice were very helpful and the workouts were challenging and exciting,” says Linda. Ryan Patterson, certified personal trainer, led the participants in the Weight Loss Challenge. “Ryan’s motivation and weekly food charts kept me focused and on track. I would (and have) highly recommend the program to anyone.”
Tie for Third Place: Nicole Maurer
Pounds lost: 20
Although Nicole loves training with a group, she wasn’t sure the program would be a good fit for her since she only wanted to lose 10 pounds. “I called Ryan and he assured me the workouts would be challenging. He certainly didn't disappoint!” says Nicole. “My weight loss results exceeded my initial goal and I am also pleased with my increased energy level. I especially enjoyed working out with my 6:45 am Wednesday group. They were all great workout partners. I'm proud of us all!”
Are you ready to lose the weight for good? For more information or to sign up, call the BAC at (269) 544-3200.