Lose weight, get paid!
Residents of the town of Varallo in northwestern Italy are turning kilos into euros through a communal diet project initiated by the mayor.
Men who lose 4 kg (9 lbs.) in a month will receive €50 ($70). Women will get the same amount for losing 3 kg (7 lbs.). If they keep the weight off for five months, they’ll receive another €200, or $280.
There is power in numbers. A group approach to a challenge empowers people and provides a sense of community. Denaro (money), even more than health or appearance, can be highly motivational. The obvious goal here is to take the strain of the Italian Health Service through overweight related illnesses.