Competing to win at weight loss

Both Genghis Grill and Pollo Tropical are ahead of the curve when it comes to dieting. They have developed annual programs, with online components, to help customers slim down and shape up.

Genghis Grill runs Health Kwest as a two-month contest (entry form and rules at genghisgrill.com/healthkwest) in partnership with Medical City Hospital. Participants get a diet/exercise plan and commit to eating Genghis Grill’s healthier options, like veggie-centric stir-fries, and blogging about their progress. Winners are determined by pounds lost, public votes and online posts. “In 2011, 54 contestants lost a total of 1,087 pounds and the chain gained 6,000 new loyalty program participants, as well as 15,000 new Facebook and Twitter fans,” says a spokesperson for the chain.

At Pollo Tropical, nutritionist Dr. Joanna Lichen put together the 21-Days to a New You Meal Plan (pollotropical.com/21days). It includes lunch and dinner options, such as the new Create Your Own TropiChop, with a wide range of ingredient choices, as well as favorites like the signature grilled chicken and roast pork. Ten healthful breakfast ideas, 10 snack options and 10 recommendations for staying healthy are also on the plan. “The idea behind this actually came from our most loyal customers. They count on our extensive menu variety and fresh ingredients to eat healthy,” says Kim Miller, VP of Marketing and Communication.