I’m feeling good about this season of “The Biggest Loser,” which premiered last night. The show lost its way a bit a couple seasons ago, focusing way too much on scenes that can be summed up by counting the number of times Bob says, “This is what ‘The Biggest Loser’ is all about.” Too much sap; not enough action.
Last night’s episode flew by though — interesting challenge, great gym scenes, and even Debbie going full-on bitch towards Bonnie!
Beyond it’s entertainment value, I love “The Biggest Loser” because I believe that it is changing lives. There ought to be a “Kids: Don’t try this at home!” disclaimer before every show, though.
On the food/drink front, I think the show does an excellent job giving safe and useful information. But on the exercise front? The training and the challenges are way too intense for people that out of shape.
We very rarely get to see even glimpses of the medical assistance these guys are receiving behind the scenes, but I’ve got to think they are getting tons of aid in the form of wraps, ice baths, physical therapy, and undoubtedly, cortisone injections. I’d develop big-time injuries working out at that level of intensity, and I’m fit. If you are new to exercise, and are inspired by the show, please seek out a trainer to help you find an appropriate level of intensity for you.
Putting the dangerous gym stuff aside, let’s get back to why “The Biggest Loser” is changing lives. I liken the show to time-lapse photography. Over the course of the season, we get to see people go from obese and plagued with afflictions like diabetes, gout, and heart disease to fit and medication-free. We get to see them go from sad, weak, and whiny to beyond thrilled that they have the energy and strength to play with their children.
Can an obese person on their own lose thirty pounds in one week? Maybe so, but I’d question how safe it is. So this time-lapse photography aspect of the show is incredibly inspiring, but it is not realistic. If you are looking to get healthy, use “The Biggest Loser” as inspiration to see that you will be better off at the end of your weight-loss journey, but it’s going to take some time.
Still, the message is important: eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly, and you can live a fuller, happier, and healthier life.
Nice.
