New research finds when it comes to motivating people to lose weight, money talks. A study by the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and RTI International, a nonprofit research organization, found overweight employees who were paid even a small amount of money lost more weight than employees who were not offered a financial incentive.

A popular program at the Lifetime Fitness chain of health clubs is also using money to motivate members. The T.E.A.M. Weight Loss Program is a 12-week fitness program that features small group workouts three times a week and personalized advice from a nutritionist. The program costs $499.50, plus a $150 joiner fee. If the member meets their fitness goal by the end of the 12 weeks, that $150 is refunded.

Trainers at Lifetime Fitness in Novi said the program has been very successful. Since the classes began, every member who has joined has met their fitness goal.

To learn more about the T.E.A.M. Weight Loss Program, go to: www.lifetimefitness.com/team