The Biggest Loser Sets a Bad Example

The Biggest Loser is a reality TV show/contest that awards obese contestants for losing crazy amounts of weight.  I used to think the show was a great motivator until I watched the season premier last week.  As I watched the show, I found myself feeling frustrated by what I saw.  First, the show is far from reality.  If you take anyone out of their normal environment, have them work out with personal trainers for hours a day, cook them healthy food, and provide support from medical staff, trainers, and fellow contestants, you have a winning combination that is sure to promote huge weight loss.  Losing over 10 pounds a week is NOT the norm.  Second, I question the ethics of these training practices.  Pushing clients to the point of injury or exhaustion is not appropriate in any way.  The approach seems to be break them down before you build them back up.  I cannot imagine what would happen if this type of training took place at a local gym.  I would hope it would be shut down.  I don't want this type of training to set the standard for what personal training is about.  I see changes in exercise and training taking place in a negative way.  CrossFit and bootcamp-style training may be appropriate for some, but I am seeing over and over again, clients that are getting injured in the process of trying to be healthier.  Health does not have to be so difficult.  Progressive training and diet changes are the most successful and allows the body to adapt both physically and mentally to new challenges.  No, you won't lose 20 pounds in one week, but 1-2 is not too shabby.  And your body will be sure to thank you 20 years down the road for not over-training to reach an unattainable goal.