Make Your New Year's Resolution a Reality By Bonnie Pfiester
What does New Year's Resolutions and reality TV have in common? Both have the chance to change your life forever.
With dieting being number one on the list of New Year's Resolutions, there's no wonder weight loss reality TV is such a hit amongst so many viewers. When weight loss reality TV entered in our world, thousands of hopefuls flock to casting calls with the aspiration of being the next Biggest Loser. Why? Well, as a fitness professional and wife to reality TV trainer, I'll tell you why.
First, people lack motivation. Over half the conversations I have with people are on the subject of motivation. Although motivation shouldn't determine our success, we let it dictate whether we succeed or fail. Interestingly enough, we all have things that should give us plenty of motivation to lose weight and get in shape. Our health and appearance mean a lot to us, but what people are really talking about is a feeling. People naturally would prefer to "feel motivated" to workout. Some people only exercise on the days they "feel" like exercising. Well gosh, I would hardly ever work out if I did that.
Secondly, people lack discipline. Although most people should be plenty motivated to lose weight, few are motivated enough to actually do something about it. So, their answer is reality TV. After signing their life away, each new cast mate gives up one of their most valuable positions - their freedom.
Ironically, in the land of the free, millions of people are more than willing to give up their freedom to live in a house of total strangers with cameras following them around while trainers put them through pure hell. Don't get me wrong, that's the trainer's job and that's what the viewers want to see.
Next, dieters need accountability. Even though people throw money away everyday on gym memberships they don't use or diet gimmicks that don't work, it doesn't seem to be enough risk. Reality TV increases the stakes forcing feelings and fears to take a backseat to competition, money and recognition. Not only does reality TV add more to the prize pack, which means more to lose if you don't succeed, but it also puts cast mates in a controlled environment where donuts are scarce and workouts aren't an option.
On top of being entertained by the game play, weight loss reality TV has offered American's something I don't even believe they even expected - the truth. Season after season, we have watched every type of person from every walk of life lose weight despite their odds. Each victorious testimony made a powerful point - diet and exercise works.
So what can we learn from weight loss reality TV? We don't need reality TV to make our dreams come true. Though it is sensationalized on TV, the process is the same. The key ingredient is action.
If you lack motivation, you need to realize your health and appearance must become important enough to help motivate you towards success. If your weakest link is discipline, then join a strict fitness program or buy a personal training package that will not only help keep you on track but put your money on the line as well. Lastly, if it's accountability you need then join a weight loss support group to help you stay on the straight and narrow.
The bottom line is you can produce your own weight loss reality show style competition in your own hometown. Whether it's hiring a personal trainer to lead a fitness challenge at work or competing with friends - the element of competition can help people succeed.
When it's all said and done, remember one thing - fitness works on and off camera everyday.
You can either sit on the couch while eating your pizza and watch other people lose weight or you can decide to something about it this year on your own.
About Bonnie Lee Pfiester
Health Club Owner, Wife to TV Fitness Trainer and Host, Health & Beauty Columnist, Keynote Speaker, Model, Musician, Artist, Automotive/Motorcycle Enthusiast and Community Leader.
