Local participation in the statewide weight-loss initiative Scale Back Alabama nearly doubled by the end of the registration period, local organizers said earlier this week..

On Wednesday, some 50 people were signed up for the 10-week competition that allows teams of four who lose at least 10 pounds per team member to be entered into a contest for prizes.

By Friday, that number grew to 92.

At the Opp Wellness Center, Director Joni Russ said 12 teams are registered for the competition.

“That’s 48 people for us, which is wonderful,” Russ said.

At Andalusia Regional Hospital, 11 teams, or 44 people, registered, said ARH’s Valarie McCalman.

In 2013, participation in the program was low, with 80 people registering and nine meeting the goal of losing 10 pounds or more.

McCalman also reminded residents about the nutrition class taught by registered dietician John Newsome and held in conjunction with the 10-week program.

“Remember, you don’t have to be a Scale Back participant to attend these classes,” she said.

These classes will be held on Mondays at 4 p.m. in the hospital dining room beginning Jan. 27 and ending March 31.

The competition, which is designed to capitalize on weight loss for New Year’s resolutions and create a fun atmosphere for weight loss and physical activity, is in its eighth season. Scale Back Alabama is a public awareness campaign hosted by Alabama’s hospitals and the Alabama Department of Public Health, with generous support from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.

–Stephanie Nelson