Losing weight is easier when you have a buddy to do it with. It can also be fun when there is a little competition involved.

The Health Departments of Kinnelon, Bloomingdale, Riverdale, Florham Park and Pequannock are sponsoring a multi-town weight loss competition to help residents shed their winter coat beginning Feb. 6. The 100-day weight loss challenge (ending May 15) will kick off with a weigh-in Feb. 6 from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. at the Kinnelon Public Library, Pequannock Senior House and Florham Park Library and also on Feb. 7 from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. at the Bloomingdale Municipal Building and Riverdale Senior Center.

From there, participants are on their own to lose the weight.

The first-place winner will win a $100 gift card and one additional winner per town will win a $50 gift card.

According to the health department, last year's participants lost an average of 10.6 pounds, while the winners lost more than 20 pounds.

In order to participate, you must be 18 or older. For more information, contact Rachel at 973-835-5700 ext 115 or rlendner@peqtwp.org.