About those before and after selfies and public declarations of hitting the gym? New research co-authored by Dr. Sonya A. Grier, professor of marketing in the American University Kogod School of Business, confirms these announcements and progress updates are useful for the achievement of weight and fitness goals. "Weight Loss Through Virtual Support Communities: A Role for Identity-based Motivation in Public Commitment," published in the Journal of Interactive Marketing, examines the role of virtual communities and public commitment to setting and weight loss goals.

The study tracks two communities of weight loss groups, surgical and non-surgical over a four-year period. They found that participation and sharing of successes and setbacks in virtual support communities (VSC) is a key part of achieving goals through the public commitment to lose weight.

"In our investigation of VSCs, we find social identity motivates public commitment in support of goal attainment," the researchers write.

Grier says, "The sharing of intimate information and photos about weight loss goals in virtual space is a key factor in motivating behaviors that fulfill that new thinner identity and thus helps people reach their goals."

Bloggers like Audrey* shared old photos in search of a "pretty and slim" version of herself.

"Here is my picture of 28 years ago when I was young, pretty and slim," Audrey* wrote in a post. "Makes me wanna cry… I can't get any younger, but I sure can get closer to that weight! Stop crying, start losing weight, girl!"

Others, like Darlene* shared milestones.

"I have good news to report. My hard work of eating right and working out has paid off. I am now in ONDERLAND!!!! I weighed in this morning at 196lbs! YES, I did it. I reached my first goal to be under 200lbs and before my cruise on October 16th. I can't believe I did it! I'm so proud of myself."

Ultimately, Grier says, VSCs allow for relative anonymity, accessibility, availability and flexibility in how users represent themselves on their journeys. The process of building community, even in relative anonymity helps with keeping participants motivated and accountable.

"Not everyone can get the support they need from the people they interact with in person on a daily basis. It is helpful that technology can support community building and goal achievement in virtual spaces."

*Names have been changed.