By Lee DiBlasio
Members Lose Big at POWERHOUSE GYM HILLSBOROUGH.
Modeled after the TV show "Biggest Loser”, POWERHOUSE GYM in Hillsborough just finished its second 8-week Weight Loss and Exercise Program on Tuesday nights. The class provided participants with a progressive workout program created by a Personal Trainer and basic nutrition lessons from a Registered Dietitian. Weights and measurements were taken on the first and last sessions. Each Tuesday night participants attended one-hour Group Support Meetings to check weights and discuss exercise and nutrition. The contest provided a strong support network for all the participants, stressing the importance of a lifestyle change for weight loss and long term weight management. Every two weeks a new workout was advised. A low calorie diet was provided along with nutrition education to discourage crash dieting. Learning the basic essentials of nutrition allowed participants to make healthy food choices on their own. One of the keys to weight loss is considering portion sizes. Using a smaller plate will help control portions and look more satisfying. Consuming healthy foods such as complex carbohydrates and fiber can help curb hunger along with other health benefits. Lean protein sources should be selected, and participants should focus on sources of fats consumed. Low fat dairy products contain essential nutrients without the saturated (bad) fats in regular products. Other topics discussed were "how to read a food label", basic menu planning, dining out, and modifying recipes for better health. A hand out on the discussed topic was provided each week with a sample daily menu and choices for breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner. It is important to consume a varied diet with small meals throughout the day to power the body with nutrients.
The top three males and females were recognized for their dedication and hard work. There was a point system used to calibrate the overall male and female winner. Points were given based on the percentage of body weight lost, total pounds lost, and total inches lost. The top male and top female were selected as "The Biggest Losers". This class’s Biggest Losers were: Jennifer Haley of Hillsborough, 34 yrs old, she lost 31.8 lbs, 26 inches, and 12.4% body fat, and Mike Piccone of Belle Mead, 39 yrs old, he lost 22 lbs, 21 inches, and 11.3% body fat.
POWERHOUSE GYM is located at 129 Stryker Lane in Hillsborough right next to the Hillsborough Movie Theater and is planning another “Weight Loss and Exercise Contest” starting May 3rd. Participants interested should contact Ken Turash at (908) 904-1112 or by e mail at [email protected]

