What’s up, fellow Obsessives?
Here’s hoping the cold weather and snow hasn’t gotten in the way of you finding your nearest OTF studio this month. It’s been so bad in my neck of the woods that simply running from the car to the studio has been a win in itself before the clock even starts.
Stay warm and safe out there!
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New Year’s is in the rear view mirror, the collection fees have been collected and the preliminary body scans have been done.
It’s time for the Transformation Challenge.
This week’s edition stretches eight weeks from tomorrow (Monday, January 26) to Sunday, March 22. Participants have the choice to compete in either the weight loss or muscle build category and all participants must attend at least three classes in six of the eight weeks.
And while not all of us may have ponied up the $35 entry fee, the thing I like about the Transformation Challenge is that everyone can play along from the sidelines. You can commit to attending the same amount of classes or eating healthier for free.
It’s a great time for all of us to recalibrate as we fight through the rest of winter.
That said, a few readers weighed in with advice after participating in the transformation challenge in years past.
“I won the weight loss category at my studio three years ago and it was all about making sure I also got my diet in order. My studio brought in a local dietitian the first week which really helped me eat the right things for workouts. I also really enjoyed being on a team and we had a group text chat with one of the coaches that made the two months go by really fast.”
“I’ve done it twice and am doing it again this year. I never expect to win the big cash prize our region gives. The short weekly challenges make it fun. You also gain a lot of information from the coaches regarding nutrition. After your body scan you have an opportunity to have a 1-1 with a coach who can give you suggestions to help you meet your goal. Our studio divides participants into two teams, so there is some rivalry. Having to come 3x a week for 6 out of the 8 weeks gives you accountability. I’ve learned a lot and I have been able to continue with the process.”
“They say all participants must go to at least three classes, but I think to win in most places you have to go a little farther than that. At least an extra class a week and if you don’t want to buy any more, extra sessions out of the studio. For the weight loss competition, eating well is key.”
“I enjoyed the transformation challenge when I did it. I didn’t come close to winning, but being part of a team and getting closer to other people in my studio and making friends was totally worth it. My advice to most people would be just focus on yourself and the personal wins you see. If you end up winning, that’s just a bonus.“
📕 Conquer 2026 with
the Ultimate OTF Tracker on Notion!
📆 The Week Ahead
🏃 One Mile Benchmark (Monday): My first time on the one-mile since I beat a five-year-old time back in August. Haven’t felt particularly fast on the tread lately, but the good news is there will be another of these at the end of the TC.
Lookahead to February’s calendar ….
These are unconfirmed, but Reddit user kikijak18 reports that February will see the 500 meter benchmark on the 4th, a Game Day signature workout on the 8th, a “Crush Hour” signature workout on the 14th, the 12-minute run for distance on the 19th and the Strong and Steady signature workout on the 23rd.
🥇 Milestones and Achievements
• Shoutout to Jesse F. for hitting class 500 last week!
• Shoutout to me for posting a PR in the 1,000-meter row benchmark!
Just passed a milestone or posted a PR? Hit reply on this email and let me know!
Have a great week out there, everyone!
Note: OTF Obsessed is an independent fan-created newsletter and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially associated with Orangetheory Fitness.
