Gym hosts local version of ‘The Biggest Loser’

Each year at this time we all hear about New Year’s resolutions.

Whether it’s to stop smoking or lose weight, many make the commitment to better their lives.

Help may be on the way for some local residents by way of Custom Health and Fitness.

The facility is preparing to kick off their first “Pahrump’s Biggest Loser Contest” this month.

The program is modeled after the hit television show where contestants participate in an all-out effort to lose weight and regain a healthier lifestyle through regular training regimens, dieting and even counseling.

Shelby Hughes is an instructor at Custom Health and Fitness and said the program is open to anyone who is looking to better themselves physically and is willing to make a serious effort to do so.

“We are trying to give the people of Pahrump an opportunity to become successful with their long-term weight loss goals. We want to give them the tools, whether it be in nutrition or the right way to go about their exercise programs,” she said.

The contest is roughly three months long.

Hughes said those who may be interested in signing up should do so by next Saturday.

“You come down on Jan. 11 and sign up. We will take your body fat percentage and record your weight. We will then calculate it down to how much body fat you have. There will also be a mid-way mark where we do it again and once again at the end which is April 5.”

The program goes well beyond just working up a sweat on the various machines at the facility.

Hughes said there will be training professionals providing guidance and support as the program progresses.

“During the program, we are going to have nutrition seminars where we teach you how to cook easy, healthy recipes that are fast and family-friendly as well as affordable,” she said.

Aside from the obvious incentive, which for most would be a trim physique and healthier lifestyle, Hughes said an additional lure is something everyone can relate to.

“We are doing cash prizes and at the end. We are also doing a big event involving a 5K (run) and other things like that,” she said.

As far as trying to gain an unfair advantage at the start of the program, whatever it may be, Hughes suggested that it’s best for all to stay true to themselves.

“It’s more about getting healthy than winning a contest. It’s also a great New Year’s resolution for those who are really serious about embarking on a healthier way to live throughout 2014 and beyond. We are hoping for at least 50 contestants and it’s open to everybody. We have trainers available who will do individual or group training sessions. We also have classes that are available to the contestants. They can take the classes, they can learn how to use the equipment and get one-on-one guidance,” she said.

Hughes noted participants do not have to be a member of the fitness facility to take part in the contest.

“You don’t have to be a member, but we certainly encourage it. It’s $40 to join the Biggest Loser Program itself. Contestants will get a T-shirt and access to the nutrition seminars. If you want to be a member of the facility, we are doing a Biggest Loser special where you can pay for two months and get the third month free,” she said.

Custom Health and Fitness offers scores of fitness equipment for all skill levels as well as numerous free weights.

For a nominal fee, the facility also provides daycare for children while parents get their workout.

Custom Health and Fitness is located at 3640 S. Highway 160, Suite 303. For more information call 537-6061.