I received one of my magazines yesterday from one of the fitness organizations that I belong to. There were many comments written about The Biggest Loser show. What are they really trying to accomplish with this reality show? It has been on for a few years now and I guess the public loves the show. When I read the comments about this show myfrustration occurred all over again. I agreed with everything that was written. As a fitness practitioner/personal trainer this show is giving all of us professional trainers a really bad taste in our mouths. We do not push our clients to work out 6-8 hours a day or work them so hard until they vomit or pass out. (amazing how we do not see what is really going on behind the scenes.) I guess it is lucky that they do have physicians on staff.
Individuals that are trying to follow this type of workout regime are injuring themselves right and left. I do know quite a few trainers that will work their clients hard and encourage them to do a few more reps but… to humiliate them on national tv. Not just that Jillian did mention that she is now working with athletes…. give me a break. I know a few athletes but it took years of intense training to get to where they are at, not 12 weeks. Yes these individuals did lose weight (not the healthy way – too much too fast) and they are stronger than when they started, but for Jillian to call them athletes. I dont think so. Will they now try to apply for the olympics?
For these individuals living at home now and not on the ranch, they will find it to be an extreme challenge. Welcome to reality. I do understand lifestyle changes. I have been teaching it for over 25 years. If things are done so dramatically do you really think that they will last. What are these individuals really learning and how about a follow up. What really happened to those contestants from the very first show. How many have kept their weight off? I do remember an article in the Times Magazine from the very first show one year later and the individual that did lose lots of weight put almost all of it back on. Ok so a reality check is needed. Those that are obese need to change their lifestyles slowly not in three months time. It is the mental and physical challanges that they have gone through for many years or lifetime will not go away in three months.
For all of you reading this please understand that in real life things take time. Watching what you are eating is a challenge in itself. Getting in some form of exercise is a challenge for busy working individuals. Yes we all need to find the time and make it happen. It does take 28 days for a habit to form and only one day to break it, but stick with it. Keep your exercise program real. If you are just starting out take it slow. There is No reason for you to vomit when working out. Keep yourself challenged and listen to your bodies. If you are so sore the next day you wont be able to work out. Not everyone can work through the pain.
Ellen is a certified Fitness Practitioner and Personal Trainer and has been teaching obtainable lifestyle changes for over 25 years. Ellen writes and produces fitness DVD’s of the IsoBreathing program. The DVD’s are now being sold through the IsoBreathing website world wide. Ellen writes for her monthly newsletter, North shore wellness and counseling and New Orleans Wedding Magazine. She has been awarded Innovator of the Year 2006 by City Business and 2008 Best in Mandeville Exercise Programs by USLBA.
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