Biggest Loser Families: October 21st episode

Both waistlines and teams continued to shrink this week as The Biggest Loser Families voted off Amy P., leaving her with a dark fridge and a disappointed husband alone at the ranch. The ugly side of strategy became especially apparent as Vicki's smug 'I'm safe in my alliance' attitude diluted her effort in challenges and earned her a tongue-lashing from Trainer Bob. At least this is how the producers edited the tape. From cool new challenges, including Black's day on a high ropes course, Blue's Cirque du Soleil-ish workout at the LA club Absolution, and a visit with a doctor to celebrate the immense health benefits of losing major weight in six weeks, contestants continue to prove it is possible to say goodbye to their morbidly obese lifestyle. Here are a few lessons from the show:

Face your fear and do it anyway -- I garnered insights from this book with a similar title years ago, and it was life-changing. We all feel fear, yet it's how we manage it that matters most. When Coleen faced her fear of heights and jumped off that high ropes ledge anyway, she set herself up for a transformational moment. I used to be a high ropes facilitator in my mid-20s, witnessing dozens of clients learn they do have the strength to attempt a difficult move, even when engulfed by spine-tingling, knee-shaking fear. Just as Coleen affirmed herself on the ledge with "I control my body," you can grab the wheel and U-turn toward a healthier lifestyle.

Lose weight, gain life -- Since this week marked the show's halfway point, each contestant met with the official doctor to compare his or her current cardiovascular health and bloodwork to pre-show physicals. With rolls of fat lost, muscle gained, better lipids and lower blood pressure, contestants' heart ages plummeted. At 24 years old, Coleen went from a cardiac age of 55 years to 30. Brady went from 72 to 43, shaving off nearly 30 years. Staying fit and eating right is more than looks, it's a source of life.

To puke or not to puke -- Before Blue hit the gym, Trainer Jillian announced it was time for someone to puke. After pushing Phil past exhaustion, he walked outside, found a spot and chucked up lunch. Honestly, I think he milked it for a break -- his heart rate was ridiculously high. I don't agree with Jillian on this one, a breakthrough cardio session does not demand barfing.

Don't Miss Trainer Gems:

• Bob shared you don't need to always get your heart rate up for a good workout. Hear that Jillian? Focus on the core by holding yoga/pilates poses for 5-10 breaths (working up to a minute) to improve posture and strengthen lower back and abs.
• Take 'try' out of the equation -- After one contestant said the word 'try,' Bob retorted, "Try is to quit with honor." I've never heard 'try' framed in quite that way, a testament to Nike's seemingly eternal 'Just Do It' slogan.
  
  

Stay inspired -- check out Amy P.'s transformation since elimination. Also, as a rock climber, I couldn't agree more with this bonus video highlighting two critical climbing tips to assist Black up a 50 ft climbing wall. See you next week!