by Jen M. Hernandez

Created on: May 03, 2009   Last Updated: May 04, 2009

Though it has been said that America houses the most overweight and obese population, what you probably do not know is that obesity has reached epidemic proportions, globally. Over one billion adults are overweight and large portions of these adults are obese. Additionally, overweight and obese individuals are at higher health risks for multiple disorders and diseases. Therefore, it is refreshing to watch a reality television show like Biggest Loser gain popularity (world-wide) and preparing for its eighth season on air.

Biggest Loser is one of those empowering shows where real obese individuals are selected to go through boot camp-like training in an effort to rectify their eating and exercise habits. For a certain amount of weeks they work together with a trainer to lose more weight than their competitors. Later, the finalists are sent back home in hopes of learning to incorporate their new exercise and eating habits in the "real world." Upon returning to the "ranch" they are weighed on the final episode to find who has lost the most weight and, in turn, gained this season's prizes.

It is easy to empathize with the contestants, because their realness does translate on television. You watch as they deal with temptation and/or lowered spirits as they attempt to complete the exercise challenges. You get to watch them step on the scale every week to reveal weight loss that may either garner surprise and excitement or, perhaps, even disappointment, something people deal with on a regular basis when attempting to lose weight. Whether for health, self-esteem, or both, these individuals have gained the courage to accept help and throw themselves into the seemingly unachievable task, wholly and in the end, they all have a different perspective of themselves and their goals than the ideals they entered the challenge with initially.

Weight loss is a rollercoaster of emotions. Some days you may feel entirely inspired, and other days you may feel completely apathetic. Some days it is easier to forgo the sweets than other days. The Biggest Loser offers competitors and viewers the opportunity to get acquainted with proper exercise routines, and eating habits. Then allows them the chance to learn to balance that knowledge in an effective way in their lives. This is a crucial part of the show, because it really counts on your own personal motivation to implement that knowledge into your daily routine. If perfected you may create a healthier life for yourself, as well as your family.

Forget about the latest fad diets, the juices and pills that promise immediate weight loss. I have never felt so inspired as I do when watching The Biggest Loser.

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