People set themselves up for failure because it is hard to break the negative patterns we set in our lives. It is so easy to make excuses for ourselves when it comes to losing weight. Procrastination as well as the loss of motivation in our weight loss journey leads to failure.

I have listed a few food choices and weight loss programs which have lead to successful weight loss for so many.

Foods That Promote Healthy Weight Loss

Of course, you should always incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet. But, if you’re not drinking enough water, all your efforts will fail. Water acts as a cleansing agent and keeps us hydrated. You should aim to drink 8 glasses of water per day. Depending on your activity level, you may need more. If plain water doesn’t appeal to you, try adding a little lemon juice or sugar-free crystals to your water.

You need to have plenty of fiber in your diet. Eating a sufficient amount of fiber will ensure that you will not have digestive issues. Having too little fiber can cause constipation which is what you definitely do not want when trying to lose weight. Constipation can make you feel sick and bloated. Foods that contain high amounts of fiber are beans, lentils, fruits, vegetables and grains. You have a variety of fiber-filled foods to choose from to help with managing your weight. Fiber helps you to feel full longer.

Foods that contain protein are also essential for healthy weight loss. You will want to eat a minimal amount of red meat because it can be very fatty. Instead, stick with white meat such as chicken and fish. Fish is extremely good for you. It is lean and provides nutrients that are needed to maintain healthy weight.

Reduced Calorie Diet

You can lose weight successfully simply by counting calories. That doesn’t mean that you can eat really bad stuff in small amounts. It means that you can have balanced meals that leave you feeling full with some healthy snacks in between. The main idea behind calorie counting is portion control. You can have something sweet here and there, you just can’t scarf down an entire box of donuts. As you take in less calories, you will begin to lose more weight. You should keep a log of the food you eat each day and fill in how many calories each meal is. By doing this, you can succeed at losing weight by counting calories.

These are a few of the proven programs available at various costs.

Weight Watchers

Weight Watchers has been around for years. The system has helped many shed unwanted pounds. This program gives its members a chance to meet with one another which helps in developing a support system. Members can attend live meetings or the program can also be accessed online. The goal of the Weight Watchers diet is for members to lose 2 pounds per week. Weight loss is steady. The Weight Watchers diet will allow a certain number of points each day to each member based on their body composition. Participants are given a booklet that tells how many points any kind of food will cost them. It also includes meals that can be ordered at restaurants so members won’t be tempted to cheat while dining out. Weight Watchers is a safe and reliable diet. It certainly is not a fad diet and it is here to stay.

South Beach Diet

The South Beach Diet was developed for overweight heart patients. It provided excellent results for these patients. While this diet is similar to the Atkin’s Diet, there are some differences. It is often referred to as the healthy version of the Atkin’s Diet. During the first two weeks on this diet, most carbohydrates must be completely avoided. This would include rice, pasta and bread. Instead, you are required to eat three meals a day until you are satisfied. These meals include meats, shellfish, turkey, chicken and fish. Nuts, fat-free cheese, eggs, salad and vegetables are also on the menu for this diet. You can expect to lose 9 to 13 pounds during this phase of the diet. During the second phase of the South Beach Diet, carbohydrates are reintroduced, but only a little. This stage of the diet will allow you to lose 1 to 2 pounds per week. The third phase of this diet requires that you make a lifestyle change and eat healthy foods and maintain your weight. This diet is about balancing the good carbs and the bad carbs. This diet also has an online program with a database of recipes which also offers alternatives to vegetarians.

Nutrisystem Diet

The Nutrisystem Diet provides prepackaged foods to its participants which typically includes three meals and two snacks per day. These are shipped directly to the customer. Different options are provided for men, women and vegetarians. This diet provides a safe and healthy way to lose weight. You must be willing to stick with the meal plans. The idea behind this concept is that the meals are prepackaged, and therefore, contain the right amount of calories for your physical makeup. If you sneak other foods in on this diet, you will not get the results you had hoped for and you will be spending a lot of money for nothing. This diet plan can work but it will take hard work and determination. The meals can be pricey, but if you are someone who’s on the go, this may be the right diet plan for you.

Purpose

Meditation and mindfulness are routes to reduce stress and regain the equanimity needed for a productive life. Many types of meditation address the importance of breathing while focusing the mind on thinking positive thoughts or visualizing constructive images. Guided meditation is a growing practice for many who desire to relieve stress and enhance the peace, health and composure of their life. With various guidance topics and recordings available, meditation, sometimes termed “centering,” calls the individual to tune into the body and breathe with the energy force of the world.

Benefits

According to Andrew Weil, M.D., “Practicing regular, mindful breathing can be calming and energizing and can even help with stress-related health problems ranging from panic attacks to digestive disorders.” This reduction in stress levels often results in creating a positive energy flow through the body that can prove effective in alleviating anxiety and even chronic pain. With relaxation of the muscles and nerves, blood and energy flow more freely to all parts of the body generating an enhanced feeling of well-being.

Proponents of mindfulness and breathing additionally laud “Improvement of body luster and general health” and “improvement in concentration” as benefits of meditation.

Though meditation is essentially a spiritual practice reaching across cultures throughout recorded history, its purpose elaborates as it is embraced. Individuals involved in guided breath meditation often evolve their practice to explore the very nature of themselves as they find success in dealing with problems and issues.

Interviews with people involved in meditation reveal that it can be an antidote for depression, stress and even fear. Offering increased joy, confidence and health, advocates find that meditation and breathing exercises assist them in gaining strength, when combined with yoga, and general health as they make meditation a way of life. Mindful breathing when combined with meditation helps practitioners to expand their horizons of life consciousness.

Process

Process and methods of meditation span a wide range. A simple Zen practice of counting breath exhalations up to five and then repeating is a good place to begin. This simplified technique means that while never counting above the number 5, the breathing meditation can continue for hours.

With guided meditation processes your imagination is exercised as you are piloted through a journey. Often a word of intention is selected as a focus for breathing and meditation that helps with discovery of healing and healthful realizations. Frequently, practitioners of breathing, mindfulness and meditation utilize recordings. This accompaniment of appropriate music or sounds of nature can add depth and texture to the experience. Recordings are readily available in stores and online. Also, you may decide to compose a recording of your own from music, poetry or quotations that you find inspirational.

Many times meditations will begin with concentration on one aspect of the body such as the breath. As you begin a meditation it is necessary to find a comfortable sitting position. Once sitting comfortably with eyes closed, you will be guided to hold your stillness and breathe deeply. Initially you will turn your mind to focus on your breathing, shifting your attention to inhaling and exhaling. As you breathe deeply you will notice your body becoming relaxed. Then there will be guidance to concentrate on other areas of the body moving from the right side to the left side. For instance, focusing on the right shoulder as you breathe noticing the muscles there and imagining those muscles becoming a stream of liquid as you breathe. This will be repeated with the left shoulder and so on moving your focus around the body as lead by the recording or leader of the meditation.

As the meditation progresses, you will transition into listening to words that you have selected. Slowly, you will begin visualizing these words or ideas with your mind’s eye. It is these words that guide you through the meditation giving your subconscious time to flow along with the meditative message or visualizations.

Meditation is such an enjoyable and healthful experience that is sometimes necessary to tear yourself out of the elixir that it manifests. Closing the meditation is like saying goodbye to a pleasant journey though the next journey into mindfulness and peace already beckons.

Relaxation Tips

• Finding a comfortable sitting position is vital to effective meditation and stress reduction.
• Achieving relaxation and breathing requires a comfortable position for reflection. Sitting with head slightly tilted forward and hands folded or placed palm up on the knees is recommended for guided breathing mediation.
• It is frequently the case with daily stress that the tongue is glued to the top of the mouth. If so, relax the tongue to rest at the bottom of the mouth inside the teeth.
• As you progress in your mediation you will often experience distraction, return gently to focus on your selected message and your breathing.
• Finding a regular spot to meditate daily supports guided meditation by giving place to it in your life.

Incorporating meditation in your life, will help you feel better about yourself, reduce stress, help you to stop using food as a crutch…thus leading to weight loss. I think much of our stress is self-imposed and prevents us from reaching goals we set for ourselves (ie: weight loss).

Give meditation a try and come back and share how it’s helped you with your life goals.

Resources on the Meditation Process and Exercises

• The Art and Science of Breathing
• Basic Breath Meditation
• Health and Yoga.com
• Centering Prayer Guidelines [video]
• Guided Meditation Project

General Meditation Resources

• The Chopra Center: Primordial Sound Meditation
• Spirituality and Practice – Explore a Practice
• The Wild Devine: Guided Meditations
• Getting in the Gap

What is Lap Band Surgery?

Lap Band surgery is less invasive than others surgeries such as stomach cutting and stomach stapling, and it is 10 times safer than other gastric surgeries like gastric bypass and gastric sleeves. It also has fewer risks and the recovery time is generally faster than other surgeries associated with weight loss. In a typical Lap Band surgery, the patient is put under general anesthesia and the system is placed during a laparoscopic procedure. Long, thin instruments are used to put the system into place through a small amount of tiny incisions. The surgery generally takes about an hour to perform and is done often on an outpatient basis. The system in implanted around the top part of the stomach, very much like a belt. A small access port is placed underneath the skin on your abdomen, which is connected to the system by a tube. Adjustments are made through this access port, most frequently during the first year the system is in place, by adding or removing a saline solution to achieve optimal weight loss. After the surgery is complete, you can expect to recover and be back to your daily routine after about a week’s time.

Who is a Candidate For This Surgery?

Only your doctor or surgeon can give you a complete evaluation to determine if the Lap Band system is right for you, but there are some qualifications to determine if you may be a candidate for this surgery. If you are 18 years old or over and at least 100 pounds overweight, you may qualify. You must be prepared to make major changes to your lifestyle and eating habits, and you must not be pregnant or drink alcohol in excess. If you do become pregnant after having the procedure done, your Lap Band can be adjusted while you are pregnant and changed back afterwards. If you have been overweight for more than 5 years and your previous attempts at losing weight have only shown short-term success, you may also qualify for surgery. You must also currently be healthy enough to recover from minimally invasive surgery. There are some factors that may cause you to not be a candidate, such as ulcers, heart or lung disease, portal hypertension, cirrhosis of the liver, alcohol or drug addiction, or certain other factors that your doctor will determine.

Benefits and Risks of This Type of Surgery

The benefits for this surgery are great and for most cases outweigh the risks. You will be able to take control of your weight and increase your health, allowing you to perform all the functions of daily life. However, just like all major surgeries, there are certain risks involved that you need to be aware of. One of the risks that every candidate for this procedure needs to know about is death. Although there were no deaths recorded in the US study, it is possible and can occur during or after the surgery. A tear in the stomach can also occur during or after the procedure, which can lead to the need for additional surgery. This happened in 1 percent of the patients studied. Age and excess weight can increase the risks for complications of surgery. There are also risks associated with medications used in the procedure and negative body responses to foreign material. Patients may also experience complications after the procedure is completed, such as nausea and vomiting, regurgitation, and band slippage. Most of these complications are not serious but may require hospitalization or additional operations. Studies have shown, however, that this system contains fewer risks than other gastric surgeries to treat obesity.

Average Weight Loss to Expect

The amount of weight you will lose with this surgery varies from patient to patient. The amount lost depends on several factors, and you need to be dedicated to your new lifestyle. Weight should be lost gradually, and sometimes a loss of two to three pounds a week can be attained, although the usual results show a loss of 1 pound per week during the first year after having the procedure done. Losing weight too quickly can be dangerous and may lead to other health problems. Studies have shown that patients typically lose weight at a greater rate during the first year the implant is in place.

Studies Done on This Surgery

Three peer review studies were conducted in the United States showing the results and effectiveness of this procedure. All three studies have shown that the amount of weight lost with the system is generally equal to that of gastric bypass surgery while incurring less risks and complications. The amount of time needed for recovery was significantly less than that of gastric bypass surgery, and it is up to 10 times safer than other procedures used to treat obesity. This system is the least invasive surgical procedure available to treat obesity, and the duration of hospital stay is dramatically shorter than other options. It is the only adjustable and reversible procedure to treat obesity. One study of 99 patients showed that after one year, there was an average loss of 44.4 percent of excess body weight. After surgery, patients were able to return to their normal activities in approximately seven days.

A detailed description of the lap band procedure and how it works can be found at the free encyclopedia, Wikipedia, located here.

Scientific studies demonstrate that lowering one’s insulin level is not only an effective and safe way to lose weight, but that lower insulin directly contributes to good health in a number of ways.

How insulin works

Insulin is one of the body’s natural hormones that is produced in the pancreas and is used to regulate fat and carbohydrate metabolism. Stimuli like ingested protein and blood glucose levels cause the pancreas to secrete insulin. The hormone regulates both the rate at which the body stores and burns fat.

By lowering insulin levels, the body stores less fat thus preventing weight gain. Studies also suggest that lower insulin contributes to slower aging, lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels along with having other health benefits.

Individuals can control their insulin levels using a holistic approach that involves diet, exercise, nutritional supplements and, in some cases, insulin-regulating drugs.Insulin resistance

Many people develop insulin resistance resulting in higher than normal insulin levels in the system. The cause of elevated insulin levels is often linked with the modern lifestyle in which large amounts of sugar and complex carbohydrates are consumed. Other factors that may contribute to insulin resistance are alcohol consumption, nutritional deficiencies, lack of exercise, smoking and stress. Web MD goes into depth on the health issues associated with insulin resistance. It can be read here.

The high rate of obesity in America is often linked with Americans’ high levels of insulin. Many snack foods are loaded with carbohydrates and people are not getting as much exercise as before. Consequently, many become insulin resistant and their bodies produce higher levels of insulin contributing to health-threatening weight gain.

Studies also show that these high insulin levels may be contributing to the widespread incidence of cardiovascular disease. The research shows that people with elevated insulin levels had higher risks of heart disease, hypertension, blocked arteries and high cholesterol.

Cutting insulin levels by lowering intake of carbohydrates

One of the most effective ways to lower insulin in the system is to reduce the amount of high carbohydrate foods in our diet. Traditionally, grains and starches make up a large percentage of the modern person’s diet.

We can safely reduce carbohydrate intake by paying more attention to the food we eat. Some foods more readily stimulate the release of insulin than others. Foods that quickly raise the blood glucose levels are the ones to watch most closely. These foods are said to have a high glycemic index (GI) and include grains like rice, wheat and corn; and starchy foods like potatoes and bananas. One does not have to give up these foods, but it is a good idea to be aware of the glycemic index of foods that you normally eat.

Use whole rather than refined grains and try to reduce consumption of sweet foods like sugar and honey. Most processed snack foods should be avoided if possible.

By eating a more balanced diet not so rich in high glycemic index foods, the body’s insulin levels should begin to normalize. Another method of keeping the blood glucose levels lower is to eat a larger number of smaller meals each day. Instead of eating three “square” meals, for example, you could reduce the size of breakfast, lunch and dinner and add some healthy snacks between these meals. Some experts recommend eating about five or six meals a day to avoid sharp swings in blood sugar.

A more balanced diet will contain a higher percentage of proteins and fatty foods as a source of calories. Contrary to a common belief, fat in food does not automatically translate into body fat. By eating a higher percentage of protein and fat rich foods, the body is able to get sufficient energy without pushing up insulin levels. While some fats may contribute to cardiovascular problems, other fats are much less dangerous and are even beneficial so long as one does not overindulge. Omega fatty acids, for example, found in seafood and various plant sources are thought to contribute significantly to cardiovascular and overall health.

The importance of exercise

In addition to controlling excessive intake of carbohydrates, you can also control insulin levels by maintaining an active lifestyle with plenty of regular exercise. Physical activity helps burn off glucose in the blood reducing the amount of stimulus that causes the pancreas to release insulin. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise and resistance training enhance the body’s insulin sensitivity and also may stimulate sex hormones that refine the body’s insulin response.

Of course, regular exercise can also directly burn off fat and it helps tone up the cardiovascular system.

Using nutritional supplements

Certain minerals are thought to help the body control insulin levels better. Chromium is an important element in the Glucose Tolerance Factor (GTF), a molecule used to regulate blood sugar. Chromium supplements can help lower blood sugar levels and decrease insulin resistance. Foods high in chromium include onions, sweet potato, tomatoes and mushrooms.

Vanadium is another important mineral that can help control insulin levels. Vanadium works by performing some of the functions of insulin. Foods high in vanadium include soybeans, mushrooms, black pepper and parsley. Some experts, though, state that foods do not contain enough vanadium to impact glucose levels and that one should instead use nutritional supplements as a source for this mineral.

Controlling insulin with drugs?

Some doctors recommend using drugs like metformin to reduce insulin levels and promote weight loss. Metformin acts in a manner similar to vanadium in that it mimics the action of insulin. Metformin is considered safer than its predecessor, the anti-diabetic drug phenformin. However, metformin is not available over the counter and must be prescribed by a health professional.

Losing weight requires staying the course

Like any weight loss program, a regimen that involves lowering insulin levels will not work overnight and persistence is required. Generally, it is best to consult with a physician before undertaking an insulin-based weight control program.

However, it doesn’t have to be this way.

You can escape becoming a part of the growing statistic of obese people, and offer your body a natural route to losing weight safely and in a healthy manner.

1. Make a list Successful weight loss involves more than changing your dietary habits. You need to find a balance in your mind, body and soul. So pause for a moment and make a list of everything that is preventing you from enjoying your life.

If you suffer from fatigue, memory loss or depression for example, this could be a sign that you are suffering from a vitamin B deficiency, which in turn could be hindering your weight loss.

2. What have you eaten? It is easy to be tempted by quick fix meals, but by eating natural, fresh foods every day you can prevent weight gain.

Give this routine a try and begin feeling the difference of natural weight loss, increased energy levels and the desire to exercise:

• Drink 6-8 glasses of water every day
• Swap sugary snacks for a piece of fruit
• Eat smaller portions: 5 to 6 300 calorie meals a day
• Chew slower
• Use natural sweeteners instead of sugar
• Ensure you receive plenty of sleep
• Cleanse your body of toxins

3. Exercise One of the easiest ways to improve your quality of life and experience lasting weight loss is to exercise.

Yet it is important to remember that everyone is different. Just because your friend can walk 10 miles a day, does not mean you will be able to do so immediately. You need to exercise at your own fitness levels and gradually build up your routines at a pace that is right for you.

Try starting with a 10 minute walk every day, before slowly building up to 45 minutes. As you exercise more, you will be able to challenge your body further and increase your weight loss successes.

Other good methods include riding a bike, going swimming or doing cardio/strength building exercises. Just remember to make sure that you do routines that interest you. If you enjoy it, you will stay motivated towards doing them every day.

4. Diet Pills Whilst the market may be saturated with many synthetic slimming pills, you can offer your body slimming pills naturally formulated using organic ingredients.

Clinically proven to suppress your appetite, reduce your fat consumption by 20%+ and decrease food cravings, slimming pills can offer you the support you need to take your first step to weight loss. Talk to your family doctor and see if he/she can recommend a pill that will work for you.

If you want to lose weight, set a goal, one that is quantifiable, or can be represented with objective numbers. For the purposes of this article, let’s say the goal is 10 pounds in a month. Now chunk it down – there are four weeks in a month, so you’ll need to lose about 2.5 pounds a week. At seven days per week, you’ll need to lose about a third of a pound each day. If each pound of fat contains 3500 calories, this means you must burn around 1250 calories a day through diet and exercise.

Thus, losing ten pounds in a month is difficult, but not impossible, especially if you are very overweight. In that case, those first ten pounds will be quite easy, as long as you follow the plan. If you simply want to lose the ‘last’ 10 pounds off your frame, this goal will be harder to accomplish. No matter your situation, to meet this calorie target, you will have to consistently follow a strict and detailed plan of diet and exercise. Here are the main steps:
1. First, determine how many calories your body uses each day based on your age, sex, weight, and activity level. There are many of these ‘calorie calculators’ around the internet, so find a good one and enter your vital statistics. Let’s say that your basic burn rate in a day is 2500 calories.

2. If you did no additional activity, you’d have to eat 1250 calories a day in order to hit your calorie target and induce weight loss. This would be very difficult to sustain, as you’d be hungry all the time and you’d suffer from malnutrition. Thus, you need to add in daily workouts to up your calorie burn. Let’s say you shoot for 500 calories burned in exercise. This takes your daily calorie burn at 3,000, and thus you need to eat 1,750 calories a day – a much more doable target.

3. Once you’ve determined your calorie target, plan out your daily meals so that you eat that many calories or less. A few guidelines: first, don’t starve yourself. If you consistently deprive your body, it will go into starvation mode, lowering your metabolism and killing your fat burning machine. Instead, you need to make sure your body is well supplied throughout the day with food and water. Instead of eating two or three big meals, eat 5 to 6 small meals throughout the day. This will help control your hunger while also keeping your metabolism roaring. Second, make sure to eat a wide variety of foods from all food groups, focusing especially on whole grain carbohydrates, lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables. Drink plenty of water each day, and avoid empty calorie beverages like soda and iced tea. If you make the right choices, 1,750 calories should be plenty of food to keep you satisfied each day, but you may still need to get used to ‘real’ portion sizes and wean yourself off the excessive portion sizes that are seen as ‘normal’ today.

4. Once your nutrition plan is in place, design your daily workout regime. You will want to mix in cardiovascular exercises and strength training. Shoot for about 4-6 cardio workouts each week, 3 strength training workouts, and daily flexibility training. Each type of workout will give you specific benefits. Cardio will improve your heart and lung health while also burning calories. Strength training will burn calories too, but it will also build muscle mass, increasing the number of calories you burn simply by existing. Flexibility will help you recover from workouts more quickly and will reduce your chances of injury.

If you follow this clear, detailed plan without fail, you will be sure to hit your goal after one month. The journey doesn’t end there, though – fitness and health is a lifetime quest; a journey, not a destination.

Cal Pozo is a fitness instructor, choreographer, director and producer of best selling exercise videos. He was born in 1946 in Cuba and moved to the US in 1960. Though he has been dancing since his early teens Cal made sure education was a priority, attending both Bowling Green University in Ohio and New York University in New York City. After college, while living in New York City, Cal became a dancer in Broadway musicals, including a revival of the original musical West Side Story, which also starred Patrick Swayze. It was during this show, in the late 1970s, when Cal suffered a serious hip injury. This ironic twist of fate was to be Cal’s springboard for launching into the fitness and exercise video industry.

Before suffering his debilitating hip injury, Pozo had been a serious dancer with no interest in the exercise and fitness instructional video industry. After suffering through the injury and subsequent rehabilitation, his doctors advised his dancing career was very likely finished. Refusing to accept such a diagnosis, Cal decided to take over on his own rehabilitation program and mixed various dancing and exercise disciplines into a system all his own. Successful completion of his own style of rehabilitation program, which included an approximately forty pound weight gain and loss, started Cal on his path to fitness stardom.

The Beginning

Cal Pozo started his career in the fitness industry with a book which was completed shortly after his hip injury rehabilitation and was called “Bunnetics – How to Reshape Your Buns” (Doubleday – 1982). This book began a tour of daytime talk shows including Oprah Winfrey’s first talk show and the Phil Donahue show. Such appearances on the daytime talk show circuit launched a number of contracts to write instructional fitness books. Along with the book contracts, Cal was also offered a contract to host instructional dance videos. “Cal Pozo’s Learn to Dance in Minutes” was published by Parade Video in 1989 and was wildly popular. His exercise videos and DVDs have been purchased by approximately 50 million people over the years.

The Instructor

Cal, as a certified fitness instructor, uses his dance and exercise training to teach others how to effectively get in shape and stay in shape. When Pozo made his first entrance into the fitness and dance video world, exercise instructional videos on VHS cost upwards of $80 dollars and were difficult to find. Today’s modern digital world has provided a method, through DVDs, to make exercise and fitness more affordable for everyone. The average exercise or dance instruction DVD costs $15 to $20 dollars and can be ordered from the comfort of your own home.

Cal Pozo has been producing and hosting dance instruction and exercise videos for the past 25 years, even beginning his own production company. Cal’s directing and production credits include more than 300 videos which often feature fitness celebrities such as Denise Austin and model Heidi Klum. Pozo’s fitness videos have also garnered awards such as the HBO Spirit Award and the Parent’s Choice Award.

In addition to videos featuring exercise and television stars, Cal also produces videos featuring the instructors from the hit television series “Dancing with the Stars” and “The Biggest Loser”. The “Dancing with the Stars” videos features the instructors from the show along with a cast of dancers performing workout sets based on a variety of dance styles, including the Samba, the Merengue and the Mambo. “The Biggest Loser” videos feature Bob Harper, the shows trainer, and are completely unrehearsed, being filmed at the same time the class is learning the workout routines.

Fitness Products

Cal Pozo, along with being a video choreographer and producer, is an accomplished author. His instructional books include, “Bunnetics”, “The Back Book”, “Twenty Days to a Trimmer Torso” along with major contributions to the books “Dancing with the Stars – The Book” and “Let’s Dance – A Beginner’s Guide to Ballroom Dancing”.

Cal’s video offerings, through his production company, FitVid Productions, includes programs such as “Partner Dancing 101”, a three DVD series of basic dance steps for those with little to no knowledge of classical social dancing, and the DanceFit DVD series. The DanceFit DVD series feature two separate cardio workouts and one sculpting workout DVD for those who want to get in shape and stay in shape. This video series focuses Latin and Retro dances and Salsa dancing.

Additional instructional materials include the book, “Let’s Dance”, which features 260 pages of instructional directions and photos that include all of the traditional ballroom dances. To make learning the social dance steps easier, the book set includes an accompanying DVD with a tutorial for each chapter in the book.

Why Dancing works for Fitness

Obesity is one of the most often cited causes for heart disease, diabetes and early death in adults. Today there is also an ever growing problem with childhood and teenage obesity. While ballroom dancing may not be the coolest or most interesting form of exercise available for a teenager, more modern, club style, dances can attract younger generations to get their bodies moving. Sedentary and a stressed out lifestyle can often be cited for the cause of many cases of obesity. Working any type of motion into a daily routine can greatly improve health and provide weight loss and fitness benefits to all ages.

With the prevalence of video games in today’s society, it is easy for children and teenagers, even adults, to sit in front of the television and ignore the need to exercise. While some products, such as the Wii Fit, can get people up and moving, traditional and modern dancing can provide even more benefits. Most forms of dancing use the whole body in motion, toning the muscles and providing excellent cardio exercise to improve heart and lung function.

There is a very good reason dancing works as part of a complete fitness routine. Many people have a hard time maintaining an exercise program simply because they become disinterested with the gym cardio routines. Boredom is often the most cited reason for dropping or relaxing an exercise routine. Keeping the interest of the person trying to lose weight or get in shape is difficult for any aerobics program. Many gym programs add music to their routines, but few are dedicated specifically to teaching dance.

Cardio fitness has long been known as essential to any workout routine. Cardio based exercise raises the heart rate, increases oxygen consumption and greatly increases caloric burning energy. Increased lung function provides better muscle tone, allows deeper oxygen saturation of the blood stream and can improve sleep habits, eating habits and even existing medical conditions. Most people looking to lose weight may not think of dancing as a first option for keeping interest in their exercise program.

There have been studies conducted that found that Salsa dancing could greatly improve someone’s cardiovascular fitness levels. One study found even less energetic ballroom dances increase the number of active steps a person takes during a day. Modern medical recommendations advise 10,000 steps per day is the minimum required to maintain healthy fitness levels in an average adult. To be realistic, there are just not that many adults, especially senior citizens, who are going to be in motion enough during any given day to total 10,000 steps per day.

Although 10,000 steps per day may seem like an impossible number to obtain, a minimum of 2,000 steps can greatly improve one’s aerobic exercise and cardiovascular health. Even senior citizens can benefit from ballroom dancing, which is less strenuous than some of the more modern dances such as the Tango or Merengue. Salsa dancing, the focus of many of the studies was found, one specifically included 11 pairs of dancing partners, found the maximum heart rate increased between 58 and 75 percent. The same study found oxygen consumption, both measured during typical Salsa dancing lessons, was increased between 41 and 56 percent. The author of this particular study, Gian Pietro Emerenziani of the University of Studies in Rome, Italy, stated, “With this form of dance, you are clearly getting a workout. All three types of Salsa in our study, practiced frequently, will have a positive impact on health and fitness.”

One other benefit to using dance instructional videos as part of a more comprehensive exercise program, is they can be used in the privacy of the home. No trips to the gym with many others in the same club, which can often be embarrassing for someone who is overweight or struggling with their diet. Even the partners dancing programs can be used by an individual to gain that extra measure of fitness to assist in losing weight.

Continuing Fitness

Cal Pozo is not one to rest of his past accomplishments. He keeps up with current dance and fitness trends, recently choreographing and producing the video, “Dirty Dancing – The Official Dance Workout”. The video featured dance moves inspired by the original movie which are performed to the original sound track. Within the past year, Cal has hosted a new series of instructional videos to teach ballroom dancing called, “Partner Dancing 101”.

Cal Pozo still lives in New York City, where he heads his production company, FitVid Productions. He is still hands on with his company, choreographing, directing and producing exercise videos. Not only does he spend his time in New York, he can also be found at sound stages in Los Angeles and in South Miami Beach, where he can frequently be found practicing Yoga with his 92 year old mother. If there is any need for proof that exercise and dancing are a good part of a healthy lifestyle, Cal Pozo, and his mother, are good examples.

It highlights work and health care costs by state, as well as comparing the states to one another.

Arizona, where it is hot, has the lowest percent of obese people in the country. Either the heat forces them to move away, or they sweat it off. The old grade school joke about the desert being so hot that only one S can grow there perhaps some foundation in reality.

Alaska is a leader in obesity – perhaps its to cold to go out and do anything, or people need the extra layers for warmth. What other area is right up there with Alaska on the leader board? Washington D. C. … no doubt some politicians and greasy lobbyists are living high on the hog.

Click on the mini-snapshot image below to open up the full extended infographic in your web browser.

Bob Harper is a generally known as a fitness guru and is most famous for his appearances on the television show, Biggest Loser, a reality television show where contestants compete to lose the most weight in a given period of time. In addition to Biggest Loser, Bob Harper is a celebrity trainer with clients like Ben Stiller, Selma Blair and Gwyneth Paltrow. As something of a celebrity himself, his sexual orientation and dating status has become a point of interest for many people. Mr. Harper is a proponent for a training regime known as the “Function Training Method” which he developed while working as a trainer in Los Angles.

Personal History

Bob Harper was born on August 18th, 1965 in Nashville, Tennessee. Mr. Harper was apparently not active in high school athletics. After graduating from high school, he attended university in Clarkesville, Tennessee at Austin Peay State University. Following his time at college, he received a fitness instructor’s certification from the American Fitness Training of Athletics association as well as from the Aerobic and Fitness Association of America. Mr. Harper worked extensively in Los Angles, where he began instructing several celebrities, initially Jennifer Jason Leigh. Through this connection he was eventually selected to become a judge and cast member for Biggest Loser. After reaching a degree of fame from this program, he went on to produce fitness related materials including books and DVDs.

In addition to his appearances, speaking dates, and writing duties, Mr. Harper still teaches regular classes in Los Angeles and works as a yoga instructor. His client list is a mixture of high profile celebrities, with many of whom he’s maintained a long relationship, as well as regular individuals who have signed up for his classes.

In his personal life, Mr. Harper is naturally very physically active. He claims to be an active snowboarder, as well as a tennis enthusiast. His other fitness-related activities include cycling, running and swimming. Outside of fitness, he is known to be an avid photographer.

Fame

Bob Harper was originally a celebrity personal trainer working in Los Angles. His stable of clients included several popular actors and actresses. With the popularity of the Biggest Loser television program, he’s become a legitimate celebrity in his own right.

Bob Harper is best known for his presence on the Biggest Loser program. He joined the cast of trainers in 2004, during the show’s first season. Biggest Loser is a reality television program based around helping overweight and obese individuals become physically fit and lose weight. The program started in 2004 and has run for a total of nine seasons, and Mr. Harper has been a fitness instructor in all nine seasons. In addition to his appearance on the show’s American version, Mr. Harper participated in two season of the Australian version of the show, once in 2006 and again in 2008.

In addition to his part in the Biggest Loser, Mr. Harper has appeared on a number of other television programs, mostly relating to his role as a fitness advisor. These include six episodes of the Ellen Degeneres program, both the Tyra Banks Show and the Today Show, as well as a cameo on Days of Our Lives. He’s also a regular target for reality television recap shows like the Soup and Best Week Ever. Other television appearances include news programs, most notably “Larry King Live” and “CNN Today” as well as the entertainment news programs “Entertainment Tonight” and “Inside Edition.”

While his television appearances have been the primary vehicle for his fame, he has also been involved in a number of different fitness related products. This includes his book Are You Ready!: Take Charge, Lose Weight, Get in Shape, and Change Your Life Forever, and a number of fitness DVDs produced under the Biggest Loser brand.

After his success with Biggest Loser and its related media and his own bestselling book, Mr. Harper has been in increasing demand as a trainer and motivational speaker. His appearances range from lectures and speeches to group training events, and his work has taken him to a number of countries in Europe, North America and Asia.

Fitness Philosophy

Bob Harper’s approach to fitness is based on a holistic approach to both exercise, diet and psychology. He terms this approach the “Function Training Method.” This training philosophy was developed during the ten years he spent working as a Hollywood personal trainer. The Function Training Method is characterized by both a physical fitness component and a mental component similar to a number of self help techniques. Special care is taken to address both portions of the regime in an attempt to adjust habits and behavior patterns to address fitness problems.

The physical element of the exercise system is based around a comprehensive nutritional and exercise method that adjust body shape by controlling caloric intake and food types. It is based on a number of preexisting exercise platforms that combine diet and exercise to address weight and health issues. A great deal of the mechanics of the program are derived from exercise methods with a significant amount of scientific backing and approved by the American Fitness Training of Athletics association and Aerobic and Fitness Association of America. In short they are a combination of several techniques proven to be effective for fitness and weight loss.

The most novel element of his fitness regime is the integration of fitness into daily life. Rather than pursue exercise elements in a manner distinct from regular life, the Function Training Method advises an approach that combines exercise and daily life together. Practically this means small, discrete exercise activities that take between 20 minutes to an hour to perform.

The psychological component of the fitness program is designed to focus on the root causes for poor health habits. These are often habits or psychological conditions which lead to self-defeating behaviors like overeating or the like. Rather than focus exclusively on what not to do, the Functional Training Method provides several example of good behavior to replace negative thought patterns, destructive behaviors and self-reinforcing psychological problems. These include a variety of self-confidence boosting behaviors and tips.

The dietary component of Mr. Harper’s system is based around a full dietary adjustment. Low calorie and high nutrition foods are outlined, along with cooking techniques designed to maximize their value. His book included a number of tips to help deal with dietary issues, focusing on how to deal with eating outside of the home, sample recipes and over 20 sample menus. A central conceit of the dietary plan is the ‘eat more’ diet, a staple of Mr. Harper’s work on Biggest Loser. Essentially it suggests that eating a larger number of smaller meals over the course of the day will increase the dieter’s metabolism. An increased metabolism will lead to a healthy and sustainable weight loss plan.

Effectiveness of the Function Training Method

The Function Training Method is apparently a fairly effective method to improve health and fitness for normal people. The dietary information is within scientific guidelines for healthy eating, especially considering the exotic nature of several competing weight loss diets. Unlike the low-carb or low-calorie diets, the Eat More approach is effectively a restricted-calorie diet coupled with exercise. The novel component of smaller meals has been supported by some research as being closer to the type of eating habits that prehistoric man engaged in, as well as an effective control over blood sugar levels over the course of a day. By monitoring and controlling these levels, larger hunger ‘attacks’ will be prevented, thus reducing overeating. There have been no signs of any health problems cause by this diet.

The exercise component of the Function Training Method is similarly uncontroversial. It focuses on natural exercises using free weights, resistance training and the like rather than exercise machines. There is no particular emphasis on any single fitness component, though cardiovascular and strength training are highlighted as significant elements to proper health. A more esoteric component of the methods advocated by Bob Harper is yoga.

Yoga is a 5,000 year old philosophical tradition that was originally developed as a healing technique in premedical times. The advent of modern yoga in the West is fairly recent, dating to the 19th century. Most of the religious components of yoga have been stripped from modern fitness yoga, which is billed as a flexibility, strength and general health practice. Mr. Harper’s advocacy of yoga stems from its holistic nature, coupling psychological and spiritual components to a physical activity and incorporating elements of this synthesis into the Functional Training Method. By incorporating yoga into his system, Mr. Harper intends to address some of the psychological root causes that can cause behaviors that adversely affect personal health.

The efficacy of yoga has been studied in some depth, though there are no conclusive studies suggesting its benefits versus other health systems like Pilate’s. Most research suggest that yoga is effective for treating some types of back pain, improving posture and increasing the flexibility and lubrication of joints and ligaments.

The Function Training Method combines several established and proven health methods into a holistic fitness approach that seems effective. More novel than its individual components, Bob Harper’s introduction of a matrix of healthy activity, especially the psychological and personal elements that lead to poor health, is the root of the system’s effectiveness.

Related Controversies

No one in the public eye can escape a degree of controversy, and Bob Harper is no exception to this general rule. The controversial elements of Bob Harper’s fame have generally come in both professional and private categories, with the former centering on the portrayal of weight loss in The Biggest Loser and the latter on his private life and sexuality. Though not a particularly divisive figure, Mr. Harper does have a rather favorable public opinion as a result of his generally amiable nature and sympathetic performances on Biggest Loser, and some of this controversy is most likely a combination of professional spite and the tendency for a popular figure to attract negative attention.

The professional issues with Bob Harper are generally split along two general lines of reasoning. The first is the mildly derivative nature of the Function Training Method, which he developed. The argument goes that there is very little new in the training method and that Harper is benefiting off of a set of techniques he didn’t develop. As mentioned above this is most likely a factor of Mr. Harper’s fame rather than a serious critique of the training techniques he advocates. The primary selling point of the Function Training Method is the holistic nature of its implementation, with the unification of a large number of well supported and researched health practices under a single plan. The popularity of the Function Training Method is closely related to the personal charisma and visibility of its proponent, so claims suggesting Harper is benefiting from others work unfairly are most likely unfounded.

The second criticism relates to his participation with the Biggest Loser program, which many dietitians and health professionals believe may be raising unrealistic expectations for individuals attempting to improve their own health. Most commonly, these objections relate to the rapid rate of weight loss and especially restrictive diet. Due to the production constraints of the show and the desire to increase viewer excitement, the regime the contestants are put through is significantly more intense than most recommended by dietitians. Some even go so far as to call it a dangerous system, mitigated only by the presence of extensive support staff and observers. To be fair, most of these criticisms have been aimed at the ‘red’ team, which uses a boot camp style of training, but some criticism for the blue team has also been voiced.

Additional criticisms of the show and its approach to weight loss have been raised as well. As the contestants are literally working 24 hours a day at losing weight in an extremely supervised situation, the results they’ve received have been greater than what regular individuals can expect to achieve. As a result, some have argued that the show has increased the difficulty in maintaining a realistic weight loss program and deterred individuals from continuing to exercise and diet when they cannot match the results seen on Biggest Loser.

Bob Harper has replied to these comments by pointing out the safety constraints on the show, the differing nature of his personal exercise program and approach on the show and the motivational power of the program. The connected media, especially the DVD exercise programs which he hosts, have also been effective in helping individuals lose body weight and maintain their new physiques. Additional criticisms of the ‘eat more’ approach to hunger control have been raised, especially its effectiveness for individuals with metabolic issues, but the more extensive coverage of the diet offered in Mr. Harper’s book has mitigated those criticisms.

There have also been a number of other criticisms of the show, which reputedly pushed contestants past safe limits in order to provide entertaining television. Several minor scandals, mostly dealing with former contestants and their inability to maintain their weight loss have been aired, though Mr. Harper has never been implicated in any of them.

The relatively minor criticisms of Mr. Harper’s professional reputation are joined by a series of personal controversies, generally centering around his relationships and sexual orientation. Much of the controversy over this point stems from Mr. Harper’s personal mannerism, which some consider to be stereotypically effeminate. His single status has also raised people’s curiosity, with a large number of web searches on the search term ‘bob harper’ leading to questions regarding his marital status. Google lists ‘bob harper married’ and ‘bob harper girlfriend’ as the two most searched terms relating to his name. Mr. Harper has not publicly addressed his sexual orientation, either to confirm or deny his status as a potential homosexual, leading some to assume that he is, in fact, gay.

Though his sexual orientation has no bearing on his ability as a personal trainer, it may impact his marketability as a successful speaker and professional motivator, which may be a motivation for his reticence to comment on the subject. Though Mr. Harper has commented on a religious element to his life, saying “I love being a personal trainer…it’s hearing God’s calling for me,” he has steadfastly avoided commented on his sexual preferences.

Additionally, several former contestants have hinted at his status as a gay man, most notably Phillip and Amy Parham who were Blue team contestants on the sixth season of the show, implied that Mr. Harper was homosexual when they responded to questions regarding Mr. Harper’s marital status. Other contestants have mentioned their preference for Mr. Harper to ‘do the interior design’ for their homes as well as several other traits typically associated with gay men. Unsourced comments on several Internet sites have also pointed to Mr. Harper’s homosexuality, saying “he’s been out for years now.” It is worth noting that none of the contestants ever explicit said that Mr. Harper was gay, nor has he commented, making the whole controversy one of gossip and hearsay rather than anything conclusive.

Jillian Michaels was born on February 24, 1974 in Los Angeles, California to Jo Ann McKarus. Her mother, who works as a psychotherapist, was blessed with being naturally thin and was always devoted to the well being of her daughter Jillian and her two siblings: George and Lauren. Her father, who was a personal injury lawyer, struggled with weight issues his entire life. Despite the fact that her parents were in the midst of a divorce, Jillian’s father made it a point to visit with his daughter. Unfortunately, his visits with her were not in her best interest physically. In an interview with Ladies’ Home Journal, Jillian recalls numerous visits with her dad when they would have nothing to say to each other so they would turn to food. She has been quoted as saying that she bonded with her father over food and that they only way her father knew how to relate to her was via food–mostly junk food! This unhealthy father – daughter bonding began to catch up with Jillian and at 14 years of age, she tipped the scales at an alarming 175 pounds! It was evident that she would follow in her father’s footsteps and struggle with obesity.

However, her mother began to notice her daughter’s unhealthy weight gain and immediately enrolled her in a martial arts class. It was this class that changed her life and made her into the fitness guru that she is today. Under the instruction of Robert David Margolin, Jillian turned her life around. She reached and maintained a healthy weight and thus began her love affair with fitness. After 17 years of martial arts training, she holds a black belt in both Muay Thai and Akarui-Do. She is a true success story — transforming herself from the fat girl to the fit girl.

Upon graduating from high school at the tender age of 17, Jillian put her passion for fitness to work and became a personal trainer. Unfortunately, the income was not steady and she was forced to put her love of personal training on hold and find a job that could pay the bills. She took a job as a bartender while attending the California State University, Northridge (at 17, she worked illegally with a fake ID) and after graduation she took a job as a talent agent at ICM — which was the biggest talent agency in Hollywood. This was a job that she absolutely hated!! During this time, Jillian was able to obtain two personal training certificates. One from the National Exercise and Sports Training Association (NESTA) and the other from The American Fitness Association of America (AFAA). She obtained both of these in 1993. It was only a few years later that Jillian was able to put her passion to work for her as she began to work as a personal trainer and eventually opened her very own gym, Sky Sport and Spa, with Jackie Warner. It seemed as though her once rocky childhood was over and things were looking bright for Jillian. Then in 2004, her life changed for forever.

JILLIAN MICHAEL’S FAST FACT BIO BLAST:

• Born: February 24, 1974
• Childhood Home: Tarzana, California
• Mother: Jo Ann McKarus
• Father: Name Unknown — Jillian is currently estranged from him
• Siblings: George (younger)
• Lauren (younger half sister)
• Height: 5’2”
• Weight: 115 – 120 pounds
• Eye Color: Green
• Hair Color: Brown
• College Attended: California State University, Northridge
• Car Owned: Ferrari
• Pets: Chihuahua named Baxter
• 2 horses named Buzz and Mike
• Best Friend: Vanessa Marcil
• Favorite Place: Home
• Favorite Food: Chocolate and Peanut Butter
• Favorite Drink: Coke Zero
• Favorite Song: “Feeling Good” by Nina Simone
• Favorite Accesory: IPod
• Favorite Celebrity: Hilary Clinton
• Favorite TV Show: Six Feet Under
• Favorite Movie: Thelma and Louise
• Favorite Saying: Drink It!

A HEALTHY CAREER:

In 2004, Jillian Michaels exploded into the lives of millions of people as the tough as nails fitness trainer for the black team on NBC’s hit reality show, The Biggest Loser. However, after only 2 seasons, Jillian made the choice to leave The Biggest Loser. Millions of shocked Americans could only ask why? NBC released a statement that Jillian chose to leave to pursue other opportunities. Jillian, on the other hand, is adamant that she left because she didn’t like how the show portrayed her. She claims that the show made her seem like a crazy lady who did nothing but scream. Admittedly, she does push the contestants to the edge, but she is not heartless and she felt as though the show didn’t portray this side of her personality. Furthermore, she didn’t agree with the editing and the dramatization of the show.

During her one year hiatus from The Biggest Loser, Jillian joined the cast of the Australian version of The Biggest Loser and began to branch out into DVD’s and books. Season Four of The Biggest Loser saw the return of Jillian Michaels. Currently, Jillian is preparing for Season 9 of The Biggest Loser and is casting for her new reality show, “Losing It With Jillian.”

Reality Television Star:

• 2004 – 2006 “The Biggest Loser” Black Team Trainer
• 2007 “The Biggest Loser” Australia
• 2007 Released her first book
• 2008 – Present “The Biggest Loser” Black Team Trainer
• 2010 “Losing it with Jillian” A brand new reality show featuring Jillian Michaels. Currently in the casting stage, this show features Jillian moving in with families who need help to get back on track. With the help of celebrity chef, Curtis Stone, Jillian will move in and help the entire family learn to eat healthier, exercise properly and be healthy in every other aspect of their lives. It is set to air in the Fall of 2010.

Radio Talk Show Host:

KFI AM 640 in Los Angeles is the home to the weekly two hour long Jillian Michaels fitness talk show in which she discusses health, diet, and other health related topics. In addition, she will take calls from listeners, answer questions and help them in their journey to weight loss.

THE JILLIAN BRAND:

Jillian Michaels has had an extremely successful career in both physical fitness and in the public eye. Starting as an unknown trainer on a reality TV show whose future was uncertain at best, she has become a household name and an inspiration to millions. As a reality TV star, a New York Times best selling author, a radio talk show host, and entrepreneur Jillian is truly on top of the world. However, with the start of a new year, it seems as though she still has many surprises up her sleeve for her loyal fans. Let’s take a look at the variety of products and services that the Jillian Michaels brand has to offer…

New York Times Best Selling Author:

Having written and collaborated on several books, Jillian herself is an author of 6 books in total and a NY Times best selling author of two books.

1. Making the Cut: The 30-Day Diet and Fitness Plan for the Strongest, Sexiest You. This was the first book written by Jillian and the hardcover edition went on sale on April 10, 2007.
2. Making the Cut: The 30-Day Diet and Fitness Plan for the Strongest, Sexiest You. This book was so popular that it was re-released on January 22, 2008 as an ebook and in paperback format.
3. Master Your Metabolism: The 3 Diet Secrets to Naturally Balancing Your Hormones for a Hot and Healthy Body. Released on April 7, 2009 in hardcover and eBook formats. It is set to be re-released on March 23, 2010 as an Abridged Audiobook Download and a Abridged CD.
4. Jillian Michaels Hot Bod in a Box: Kick Butt with 50 Exercises from TV’s Toughest Trainer. Also released on April 7, 2009, this is a non-traditional book. Rather, it is a deck of cards filled with energetic and challenging exercises.
5. The Master your Metabolism Cookbook. Will go on sale April 27, 2010.
6. The Master your Metablism Calorie Counter. Will also go on sale April 27, 2010.

In addition to writing these particular books, she has had a hand in writing many “Biggest Loser” weight loss, exercise, and cookbooks.

Video Games:

In 2009 Jillian Michaels teamed up with Majesco Entertainment Company to star in Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2009 for the Nintendo Wii. This game allows players to choose from four different types of workouts: (1) weight loss, (2) intervals, (3) hill climb, and (4) strength training. In addition, players will be able to choose the intensity and the duration of the workout. Of course this was widely popular and the follow-up, Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2010, will be released in 2010.

DVD’s:

With so many DVD’s to discuss, Jillian has definitely taken the home workout video to a new level. Here are some of her most popular DVD’s:

1. “30 Day Shred” — This was one of her first DVD’s and has gotten a lot of positive reviews from men and women alike
2. “No More Trouble Zones”
3. “Banish Fat Boost Metabolism”
4. “Yoga Meltdown” — This is her newest DVD that is set to be released on February 26, 2010. It can be pre-ordered from the official Jillian Michaels store or Amazon.com.

Weight Loss Products:

In addition to the success of her books and DVD’s, Jillian has a full line of weight loss products such as the Triple Process Total Body Detox & Cleanse Plus Probiotic Replenishment and the QuickStart Rapid Weight Loss System. Also, in June of 2008, she launched her very own home delivery meal plan.

Business Owner:

As previously mentioned, Jillian is co-owner of the famous and successful Sky Sport and Spa, with Jackie Warner. Both Jackie and Jillian share a similar philosophy of helping people physically and psychologically by stressing the importance of fitness, nutrition, and behavioral changes.

AND THE AWARD GOES TO…

In addition to being uber-successful, Jillian has also received recognition from many organizations for the work that she does both on and off the television. Jillian has received the following:

• The United States Sports Academy’s Dwight David Eisenhower Fitness Award winner for 2010.
• America’s Healthiest Body 2009
• Number 84 on the AskMen.com Top 99 Women

JILLIAN ON A PERSONAL LEVEL:

It is no wonder that Jillian is the new, hottest thing in the fitness world but what is she really like? This is a very difficult question to answer as she is a very private woman and likes to keep her personal life, well, personal. It has been reported that she is currently dating Henry Cavill and that she is also dating long time BFF, Vanessa Marcil. Rumors have been spreading like wildfire that Jillian is either a lesbian or bisexual. However, none of these statements have been confirmed…or denied. Jillian did, however, in an interview with Ladies’ Home Journal make this statement: “Let’s just say I believe in healthy love. If I fall in love with a woman, that’s awesome. If I fall in love with a man, that’s awesome.”

First comes love, and then comes children. According to reports, Jillian doesn’t have any children yet but she does have a plan. In fact, she has even chosen her baby’s daddy — her very own co-trainer on The Biggest Loser: Bob Harper!

IN HER OWN WORDS:

Even though everyone may not be a fan of Jillian Michaels she does have these words of advice for everyone:

1. Get educated. She urges everyone to learn a new lifestyle, not just a new diet. Like she told Ladies’ Home Journal: “You can lose weight a hundred different ways, but if you want to keep it off you have to do something you can maintain for the rest of your life.”
2. Treat the real problem. Jillian is well known for saying that “Weight gain is a manifestation of other issues, not the problem itself.” Therefore, every single person should get to the root of their problems and not be afraid to ask for help.
3. Put Yourself first. This is especially true for women who tend to put their own needs behind everyone else’s.

SOURCES:

• http://jillianmichaels.hollywood.com/bio.php
• http://www.lhj.com/style/covers/jillian-michaels/
• http://www.jillianmichaels.com/meet-jillian/bio-about.aspx