Taking TV to task for advocating extreme exercise

With the Ten Network's 'The Biggest Loser' returning to Australia's television screens, Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) has questioned whether efforts to get the nation off the couch and get fit including popular TV extreme-makeover shows are beneficial.

ESSA Executive Officer Anita Hobson-Powell believes the frequency and exertions of the exercise imposed upon contestants by the show's assembled team of professionals are both risky and unhealthy.

Hobson-Powell explains "programs such as The Biggest Loser promote the concept that if the show's 'everyman' contestants can achieve dramatic and expedited weight loss, we all can.

"While the premise of the show is positive, pursuing health benefits through exercise, nutrition and psychological support, the reality is that injuries can occur from performing exercises incorrectly, old injuries can be exacerbated, and grave physical consequences can result from overexertion.

"Going from sedentary to active is admirable but should be undertaken in small steps. For those commencing a fitness regime, a gradual ramp-up, appropriate to one's health history is recommended. What's more, for those who are deemed obese or overweight, partnership with a GP is highly recommended.

"For those seeking to take the kilos off, the mantra should be: take it slow, and partner with a pro."

ESSA also recommends ongoing exercise management and counselling from an Accredited Exercise Physiologist for those who suffer from existing medical conditions or have at-risk health factors, as recognised by Medicare.

Hobson-Powell adds "it's unrealistic to expect an inactive person to come off the couch and plunge headfirst into a strenuous daily exercise regime.

"Shows like The Biggest Loser provide an edited version of contestants' daily activities, but the parameters are clear: exercise hard, for long stretches and to the brink of your capacity. For the viewer watching at home, this is an irresponsible message to send not to mention unrealistic, given the number of hours contestants devote to fitness each day.

"These extreme, unsustainable measures should not be attempted at home or without professional supervision."

Hobson-Powell noted that shows like The Biggest Loser also invoke a style of intimidation and humiliation that can result in reduced self-esteem.

She continues "a fitness professional's goal should not be to intimidate, but rather to support, motivate and guide clients using recognised healthy standards.

"The average person does not have access to the resources such extreme makeover shows provide. It's all well and good to watch your favourite contestants' kilos slip away, but not everyone has the benefit of a dream team of professionals that are designing, supporting and monitoring your progress.

"Losing weight quickly, as The Biggest Loser promotes, is typically unsustainable - slow and steady wins the race."

To learn more about ESSA's recommendations on physical activity please visit

http://www.exerciseismedicine.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/PA-guidelines-under-65-v2.pdf.