Not only was weight-loss found to be contagious in the study

Not only was weight-loss found to be contagious in the study, but it was also found to be boosted by competition.There was inter-team competition in Shape Up, and there are data from previous studies suggesting that such an approach may enhance weight-loss teams working together to reach a common goal and 'beat' other teams to be the 'biggest loser' can bolster weight outcomes," Leahey says.Other interesting results? Team leaders were the most successful at losing weight, and team demographics, such as gender and age, didn't really matter, Leahey says.

"Individuals who were trying to lose weight but were on teams with teammates that were more focused on increasing physical activity and not weight-loss didn't do as well — so it helps to have a common goal," she says.While more research is needed and Leahey is currently working on a follow-up study — you can start putting this new information into use today by getting together everyone you know who wants to lose weight or get healthy.

"Contact friends, family and colleagues who are all motivated and serious about weight loss," she says. "Set weight-loss goals with one another, encourage each other and hold each other accountable by making exercise 'appointments' with each other and periodically sharing weight-loss progress."

In other words, catch the healthy living bug by surrounding yourself with others who have it, too! Do you think weight-loss and healthy behaviors are contagious? Share your thoughts!