Biggest Loser --Unrealistic Weight Loss?

Well another season of Biggest Loser is over. And I have to admit I’ve seen every season. I’ve seen many transformations and been surprised and stunned by some of the final weigh-ins. But I have to be honest last night’s Finale with winner (Rachel Frederickson) totally blew me away. I was shocked and not in a good way. If you saw the look on both trainers faces (Bob and Jillian) you could tell they felt the same way. The sad part of all of this is if you’ve seen any of the reaction via social media. It hasn’t been kind. Taking shots at this woman is not the way to go. This woman showed nothing but class all season. She’s one of the most competitive and inspirational people I’ve seen on television. She worked so hard and decided she wasn’t going to be stopped. For that, she’s 250k richer, but more importantly she’s got her life back.

But here’s the thing. I can’t predict how her appearance will affect the show or more importantly women watching the show.  I will only state. She is now severely under-weight. I’ve been trying to verify her height –from what I read 5’4’ -5'7" and weighing 105 she is in a danger zone. We all have different builds. But in no way is 105 lbs healthy for someone that height. I don't care if you're a fitness model or walking a runway –IT’S NOT HEALTHY!

I’m thinking in a few weeks we’ll see an updated photo of Rachel and she’ll be at a healthy weight and show folks how to keep it off!

Unrealistic Weight Loss?  

The show overall is very unrealistic in terms of weight loss. It’s real, but the fact that these people are isolated for 5 or 6 months and workout close to eight hours a day is extreme and almost impossible to do in the real world. You do the math. There’s no way we’d survive. Another thing is the workouts, TOUGH. I don’t think I know anyone that could survive one of their “last chance workouts”. If anyone wants that workout, please let me know, I’ll supervise with a smile…………..

Then how the heck do these people do what we’re seeing, I wish I knew. We’re talking about 400lb people running, jumping and lifting unreal weights for hours. The trainers are Military type trainers, who needs it? Apparently these folks.

The message the show does convey is that anyone can change if you’re willing. It’s out there for you, if you want it! AND IT’S NEVER TOO LATE!

But the thing that bothers me the most is that the show has really hurt the average weight loss enthusiast. I’ve seen someone lose 31lbs in one week on the show. Yes 7 days. So my client works with me, loses 2lbs in one week. How’s that feel?  Hopefully fantastic…. But you get the picture. Ordinarily, 2 pounds would be an outstanding pace at which to lose weight each week, but with TV shows and infomercials advertising double-digit weekly weight loss results it’s hard to be that impressed with a couple of pounds here and another few there.

Think about weight loss realistically. In the real world 1% weight loss per week is great, and if it happens you should be proud of yourself. So if I weigh 170 pounds and I lose 1% that would equal a 1.7 pound weight loss. This is a realistic goal to shoot for each week and better yet, your results will be far more likely to be permanent.

So unless you plan on leaving your family, quitting your job and dedicating your life to losing weight, it’s a much better idea (and healthier) to aim for a 1% weight loss per week through both a balanced nutrition plan and following a sound program!

Now’s your chance to be part of a Biggest Loser Program HERE AT THE REGENCY! Check the front desk for details –sorry we can’t send you to California, but we’ll give you the tools needed to reach your weight loss goals!!