getting PAID to lose weight??

it's true. and it's not a scam. or an infomercial.

i work at one of the biggest and best research institutes in the US. So I have had the opportunity to participate in some research studies. well, i also am a member (is that what it's called?) of research match, where i receive emails for studies that i could potentially participate in. i recently got an email about a study. i'll just paste it here:

Erin,

Shortness of Breath During Exertion in Obesity

 

Our research study investigates the effect of exercise training and weight loss on breathlessness during exercise in obese individuals.  This study requires commitment and dedication, but is very rewarding.  You will learn more about your body composition, lung function, exercise capacity and will have the opportunity to work with a trainer.  You will also receive an individualized diet plan.  This will be at no cost to you. 

 

The visits, tests and payments are:

 

Visit 1:

• Consent & HIPAA – review and sign
• Review of Medical History
• Pulmonary Function Tests
• Underwater Weighing
• Pays you $50
• Time commitment:  3hrs.

 

Visit 2:

• Constant Load Cycle Test – you are resting a stationary bicycle for the most part and will cycle for 6 minutes at an easy work rate.
• Maximal exercise Test – You will start cycling at an easy work rate.  Each minute we will increase the work load, until you are “maxed” – where you don’t feel like you can cycle any longer.
• For your safety, we will monitor your oxygen, heart and blood pressure.  We always have a doctor in the building (easily accessible).
• Pays you $60
• Time commitment:  2hrs.

 

Visit 3:

• We look at your “oxygen cost of breathing”.  This involves several different breathing maneuvers.  We will coach you on your breathing.
• Pays you $100
• Time commitment:  3hrs. – 3.5hrs

 

Visit 4

• MRI – images will be of the upper body (from the hips to below the neck)
• Pays you $50
• Time commitment:  1hr

 

Training Program:

 

You will be in the resistive training (weight loss) program.  You will require to train 3 times per week depending on which group you fall into.  This is a 12 week program.  Once you complete your 12 week program, we will repeat all the above tests.  Exact same payment and time commitment.  This will be at no cost to you.

 

so yeah, it's definitely something i'm interested in. even if they didn't pay, i'd be excited to participate-- because, dude, you get meal planning help and a trainer. the money is just like an extra bonus! i had my phone interview to see if i qualify all the way, and there's one issue they're concerned with. i have to take steroids for an adrenal problem, and that might affect the study. i will find out tomorrow if i've been accepted-- keep your fingers crossed!

 

now, how does this help you? easy. go to research match. register. investigate at your local hospital or med school.  there's stuff going on like this all the time! you're doing good for the general public in helping these investigators learn more about their studies. you could be doing good for yourself, as it appears this study will be!

 

ps, all other people participating in this study are losing 25 pounds in their 12 weeks. woah. that is JUST the jump start i need!!