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Biggest Loser Resort

Name: Biggest Loser Resort
Item: Biggest Loser Resort
Author: admin

An inspired weight loss getaway located in Utah. Now known as Fitness Ridge.

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Established: 2004
Founder: NBC Television
Stock symbol: GE
Accessibility: Resort locations in Ivins, Utah, Malibu, California and Niagara, New York
Diet Type: Low-calorie, low-fat with plenty of exercise
Gender: Male, female
Celebrity Endorsements: Bob Harper, Dolvett Quince

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BACKGROUND

The Biggest Loser Resort is the official sponsor of the DietsInReview.com Biggest Loser Newsletter. Sign-up today to receive interviews, recaps, recipes, show news and more!

If you have ever dreamed about losing weight Biggest Loser-style, but without the cameras, then the Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge can turn your dream into a reality.

With two locations, in Ivins, UT and Malibu, CA, the Biggest Loser Resort is an exclusive weight loss destination that offers all the same elements of the famous structured diet and exercise plan that is followed by the Biggest Loser contestants. You'll be able to meet your health goals, whether they be losing weight or experiencing a fitness getaway in a serene setting. In fact, with its low-calorie diet, scenic calorie-burning hikes, envigorating personal training and nutrition education classes, you might find it to be a much more enjoyable experience than the TV drama.

Each day, guests receive an outlined itinerary that includes seven hours of exercise, three meals and dessert for 1200 calories, and educational lectures about nutrition, emotional eating and meal planning. A typical day begins at 8 a.m. with a hike in the nearby mountains followed by a water aerobics class, a healthy lunch, three back-to-back 45-minute fitness classes and then a nutritious dinner (with dessert!). When the day's set activities end around 6:30 p.m. you are free to get a massage at the resort's spa, read a book outside in the pool-side cabana or simply crash in your private on-site guest room.

Programs are available for adults and teenagers, aged no younger than 14. You can stay on-site at the resort or at a nearby location for a minimum of one week or as long as you like. It seems that an ideal stay is at least two weeks, but many guests stay for at least a month or several at a time.

This review is based on actual experience at the Utah location. While the BLR provided the stay, this review is not sponsored or influenced in any way and remains the reviewer's own opinion.

PRO

As close to a real Biggest Loser experience as many will find
Structured program and isolated setting
Allows supervised teenagers
Offers comfortable in-house accommodations
Scenic setting inspires outdoor activity
Health professionals and certified personal trainers educate and motivate guests
Strongly promotes nutrition education
1200 calorie menu is chef prepared
Friendly staff cater to guest needs
On-site laundry facility ($1 per load)
Spa services available (fee)
Weigh-ins are optional and confidential
First-name basis with guests and staff
Alcohol and smoking not permitted
Vegetarian- and vegan-friendly meals available
Diabetic meals available

CON

Resort's controlled setting does not mimic "real life"
No dairy is served
Do not learn to prepare healthy meals yourself
One-on-one dietitian counseling is an additional fee
One-on-one emotional eating counseling is an additional fee
Liability waiver must be signed by guests

DIET and NUTRITION

Each meal prepared at The Biggest Loser Resort has been designed by the on-site executive chef and registered dietitian, and has been approved by the team of doctors and nutritionist who work with the Biggest Loser show. In addition, all meals are made around a 1,200 calorie/day diet that is surprisingly beautiful, delicious and satisfying.

Meal times are structured around the day's activity-filled program and are consumed in an intimate group-setting. The dining room has four long dining tables with chairs that look like they came out of a beautiful rustic cabin. A friendly wait staff brings dinner to a pre-set table once you seat yourself.

Each morning that day's menu is updated so you know what to expect for your next three meals, and dessert! The menu is on a four-week rotation, so few guests see a duplication, but if they are there long enough, you're likely to be thrilled to taste many of these chef creations once again.

A salad bar is available at lunch and dinner and is self-serve. Guests are warned that anything eaten from the salad bar is additional calories to the 1,200 calorie diet, and calorie counts are posted for each item.

Fresh bananas, apples and oranges are available on the salad bar throughout the day and guests may help themselves if they need a post-workout pick-me-up or evening snack.

BREAKFAST

Some of the meals you might find at breakfast are as follows. Breakfast is about 300 calories. If you do not care for the entree being served, a bowl of homemade granola is available.

Scrambled egg with turkey bacon English muffins
Fruit plate
Homemade granola with almond milk
Banana nut muffin
Whole grain pancakes with turkey sausage and scrambled eggs
Try the resort's Mixed Berry Smoothie recipe or the Spinach, Feta and Roasted Red Pepper Frittata.

LUNCH

Some of the meals you might find at lunch are as follows. Each lunch comes with a homemade soup and entree. Lunch is about 400 calories. If you do not care for the entree being served, a Boca burger is available.

Tostada
Turkey Club Pita
Green Pizza
Wild Mushroom Soup
Beet Soup
Spicy Carrot Soupincludes salads, soups, sandwiches, burritos and pizza.
Try this BBQ Chicken Mini Pizza recipe.

DINNER

Some of the meals you might find at dinner are as follows. Dinner is about 500 calories, and that includes a homemade dessert each evening. If you do not care for the entree being served, a Boca burger is available.

Salmon Burgers
Turkey Meatloaf
Chicken Marinara with Spaghetti Squash
Veggie Lasagna
Chicken and Potato Salad

You'll feel no guilt at all ending your meal with two large chocolate-covered strawberries, almond butter cookies, apple cobbler or mango sorbet.

BEVERAGES

You can't consume too much water during your stay at Biggest Loser Resort. Carafes of ice-cold water line the center of each table during meal times, and each guest receives a branded 20-ounce sport bottle that they are encouraged to keep full with the ice and water machine located in the cafeteria. Guests are encouraged to take a hydration backpack with them for hikes.

An assortment of tea bags are available for hot tea, and almond milk is available with the homemade granola, otherwise no other beverages are provided.

Propel is available for purchase in the gift store.

EXERCISE

Just like on the show, exercise and physical activity are a prominent part of the Biggest Loser Resort program. From the state-of-the-art, well-equipped indoor gym and the expansive aerobics room to taking a water aerobics class in the massive outdoor pool or trekking along a gorgeous and heart-thumping hike in the nearby mountains, it won't take much to motivate guests to spend up to seven hours each day working out.

All classes are lead by at least one certified staff trainer and involve high-paced, gym-appropriate music that keeps bodies moving and calories burning. Each class lasts 45 minutes, and attendance is taken.

HIKING

Daily hikes are a favorite of resort guests, as they offer a chance to leave the grounds and get up close and personal with the breathtaking scenery that surrounds the resort. Leaving the resort at 8 a.m., guests depart in vans with two or three guides with their assigned hiking groups of about six people who are matched in ability (beginner, intermediate or advanced). Each day a different trail is taken, and all require endurance. For some, they'll burn more calories during the morning hike than they'll consume all day. You've never been more apt to want to kill calories than you are when you are hiking with local guides who are well-versed in the terrain, physical demands and safety of the group. Plenty of photo opps are available and hikers are encouraged to take advantage.

GYM

The state-of-the-art gym is where half of your workouts will take place. Well-equipped with treadmills, ellipticals, recumbent bikes and free and machine weights, the gym is a place you'll get to know well. Classes like cardio circuits and circuit training are all fast-paced, heart-pounding, sweat-inducing workouts that will provide the bulk of your daily calorie burn. Enthusiastic, certified trainers are motivating, educational and supportive as they guide you through 45-minute workouts that are complimented by music that only helps make those legs move faster!

Outside of the scheduled classes, guests are welcome to use the gym at their leisure.

AEROBICS

In the mirror-walled aerobics room, which overlooks the beautiful red rock mountains, you'll get a fierce workout in ways you probably never thought possible. Post-hike stretching is a favorite of this room, as is 6 a.m. yogalates. The structured fitness classes during the day can include a dedicated fitness ball class, kickboxing, or core work.

WATER

This is a favorite part of the schedule for most guests. One or two pool classes are available each day and offer a no-impact strength and cardio workout that lets you enjoy the scenery and the soak up the sun. Using water weights, noodles or even pool toys, you'll swim, jog, stretch and lift your way in to better shape. In the off hours, feel free to lounge-pool side, or increase that day's calorie burn by swimming laps. Trainers are sensitive to those with water fears and accommodate accordingly.

See our interview with the resort's fitness director, Sharon Reed.

ACCOMMODATIONS

For those guests opting to stay on the Biggest Loser Resort property, the cost only increases a minimal amount and is well worth the stay for many reasons. For starters, the rooms and bathrooms are a little larger than a standard hotel, giving you plenty of room to be comfortable during your stay. Two large queen-size beds are in each room with soft linens. A television, desk, phone, and free wifi are all available in each room. The large bathroom has a tub with a shower, so you can rinse off after a workout or soak after a long day. There are two closets, so you and a friend or resort-matched roommate each have plenty of space for all of your gear. There are two dorms with ten rooms in each, with ground-floor and second-story rooms available. Rooms are mere steps from the gym, pool and cafeteria, making it incredibly convenient to change between classes or make it to breakfast on time in the early morning.

The Resort is currently building the "Casitas," one-bedroom townhomes that will be available on-site for guests wanting a more private, spacious stay.

EDUCATION

Each day, guests will also attend one to two nutrition classes, which teach real-life healthy eating skills. Label-reading, portion control, the role of exercise, mindful eating, calorie-counting and cooking demonstrations are just some of the topics taught to guests by the staff's dietitians, chefs and trainers.

These are conveniently scheduled following meal time, so you don't have to change rooms or chairs. Guests can follow along in the workbook they receive at check-in, as well as engage in a personable Q&A each time.

PACKING LIST

The Biggest Loser Resort offers a packing list for some of the items that you'll need, and some of the following is borrowed from that. You'll need plenty of fitness clothing and comfortable athletic shoes, as well as any leisure activities you may want, like books or a laptop.

Should you forget any items, The Biggest Loser Resort has an on-site store where everything from toiletries to Camelbaks, athletic socks, and clothing can be purchased and charged to your room. Also, one of the resort vans takes guests in to the Target store in St. George, UT once a week.

What to Take to Biggest Loser Resort

Exercise Wear
Casual Clothing
Swimsuit
Light Hiking or Walking Shoes (Trail Runners)
Athletic Exercise Shoes
Athletic socks with extra support, that are breathable and wick away moisture
BodyGlide
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Food Journal (this is the perfect place to start one)
Flip-flops
Jacket and/or Sweatshirt
Hydration Backpack
Sunscreen
Sunglasses / Hat
Small First Aid Kit
Walkman / MP3 Player / Camera / Laptop
Winter Apparel in season (gloves, headband, long pants)

CONCLUSION

The Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge is a weight loss destination spot for anyone looking to lose weight or experience a healthy, action-filled and scenic getaway. Just like the popular reality series, the Utah-based resort features all of the main components of the successful weight loss reality series including diet, exercise, trained health professionals, motivation and education, but without the limelight of the cameras and typical reality-TV drama.

Each guest's journey is different - some are there for to jump start a lifestyle that will help them lose hundreds of pounds, some are trying to get back in shape, and some are looking to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with themselves. There's no judgment at Biggest Loser Resort, neither from the guests nor the staff, so feel free to jump in the pool, give it your version of 100% and make new friends confidently and comfortably.

Common Misspellings

bigest loser resort, biggest loser spa, biggest looser resort, bl resort, biggest loser risort, biggest loser ranch, biggest loser fitness ridge

Learn More about the Biggest Loser Resort

How Does Biggest Loser Resort Compare?

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Biggest Loser Resort
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User Reviews Archieved

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User Feedback

(Page 2 of 3, 49 total comments)

Sharon

I have spent 3 weeks in Utah, and one in Malibu at Biggest Loser at FR. Sharon Read is my inspiration, she pushed me and believed in me so much that I broke barriers beyond my belief (as well as those of my family's beliefs!). All the trainers, life counselors, dietitians, spa employees and front desk folks as well as the first rate cuisine chefs and servers and the hike guides are wonderful people. St. George is charming, friendly and inviting. Thanks to all at FR who changed my life!!! I will see you again soon, and to those of you thinking of going, do whatever it is you need to do to get there, and embrace the experience. It changes lives!!!! :)

posted May 13th, 2011 3:52 pm

I've just spent a week at Fitness Ridge in Mailbu. It was hands down, the best week ever - I exercised more this week than I have in the past 10 years! Sure, you'll be sore from the hiking, cardio and toning regimen, but it's well worth every penny. I needed a kick start on weight loss, and this place gives you just that. It teaches you that you can do so much more than you've ever imagined. The 1200 calories is plenty (exercise triggers appetite suppression) and there's salad and fruits if you need the extra boost. I didn't tell anyone where I was going, but now that I'm back, I'm telling all and I can't wait to go back!

posted Apr 25th, 2011 10:30 pm

Sandra

I just finished my first two weeks at Fitness Ridge and have two weeks left to go. This place is fantastic! It is by far the best money I have ever spent on myself. I have put on some pounds over the past few years and lost my desire to exercise. I needed a place/program that would make me accountable, motivate me and help me become a healthier person. This place has done that and so much more. I lost 10 lbs in my first week alone!!!!

There are people in every shapes and sizes here at the ranch, from very fit people training for triathlon or marathons to the extremely overweight/unhealthy folks. Hikes are assessed for each individuals fitness level and the classes help build strength and endurance for all fitness levels. Two weeks ago I would get winded walking up a flight of stairs and now I can hike 8 miles in the morning and survive a day filled with toning, core, cardio, weight lifting, treading classes and so much more. This program is 5 stars in my book.

posted Apr 24th, 2011 12:05 am

Cliffyunder300

It's been 6 months since my month long visit to Fitness Ridge. I've put some weight back on, but not due to the resort's lack of education or training... more likely my appreciation for a good pizza and 2 feet of snow on the ground over the winter. I've recently begun focusing on weight loss again, and the knowledge I gained about food, its effects, and my own physical abilities (which I was otherwise unaware of before hiking 12 miles in a morning) while staying at Fitness Ridge has allowed me to do this on my own. I could not have been more pleased with the resort and I really hope it helps people as it did me.

posted Apr 15th, 2011 12:01 pm

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Katie

In response to the comment posted by user "Chris". I am a tad confused on where your information is coming from. I live in St George and can assure anyone reading that we are not nearly as "remote" as this user mentioned. Our hospital is one of the best in the state and currently has people LifeFlighted to OUR hospital because of the abilities of the staff of doctors. Not only that, I have a child and drive 7 minutes to my pediatricians office. When I was near the delivery of my child, I was able to interview several pediatricians so it's not like we are some how lacking in proper medical care in this city. Also, we are, I believe, the 2nd fastest growing city in the country.

And in regards to the resort- I know for a fact that they provide a multitude of tests for their guests including RMR & VO2 testing. The other spas in the area are not even in the same category as Fitness Ridge because they do not focus on weight loss as their core- they are much more "spa oriented"- which is fine if you want a pedicure and to go on an occasional hike. If a butt kicking is what you are looking for and a calorie restricted diet sounds like your cup of tea- I would recommend The Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge.

posted Jan 17th, 2011 10:17 pm

Susan

I will be headed to the ranch in 2 weeks and am soooo excited. I am more than 100lbs overweight and this trip is a gift from my sister who will be attending as well. If ANYTHING in life says I love you and want you to live long and healthy,,, this does :)
If you think the cost is extravagant, consider the cost of Dialysis from kidney failure due to uncontrolled Diabetes, Major cardiac surgery from years of bad eating and no exercise, Knee and hip replacement surgery from overloaded joints... Not to mention years of low self esteem and opportunities lost due to appearance.
Being an nurse for over 21 years, I want to finally be an example to my patients of HOW to be vs: How not to be! Wish me luck!

posted Jan 8th, 2011 4:02 pm

cinde moriarty

i would like to come to the one in utah but i need prices and a phone number because i dont always have contact with a computar and i would rather get info over the phone

posted Oct 12th, 2010 1:37 pm

Cliffyunder300

As I didn't realize my last short comment would show up on the main page, I feel I should elaborate...

I've been here for a month now and I've never experienced anything else like it. You will be amazed at how your endurance builds and builds leading to really cool self realizations about things that you never thought you could do...then suddenly, you're leaping up mountains. The food, the atmosphere, the people and staff, and the scenery...oh, the views. I did a lot of research before coming here. I combed through weight loss places all over the country comparing prices, programs, and philosophies. Not only did I get the immediate sense that people go here to lose weight and not to lounge around like a lot of these other "weight loss" spas, but the price was right as well.

And in response to another post on this message board referring to Fitness Ridge as a "fitness prison" between a junk yard and a foreclosed subdivision? Come on, man. It's pretty obvious where you're coming from. Don't feel bitter that the Biggest Loser joined forces with Fitness Ridge and not one of the other spas around here...maybe it's because they didn't like the idea of going to a weight loss resort and being fed at a buffet... Who knows. I can assure anyone reading this that I have no affiliation with Fitness Ridge except for the month I've stayed here and I've already signed up for a couple weeks next year with some friends. It is truly a magical place and I couldn't give it any higher of a recommendation.

posted Oct 12th, 2010 12:29 am

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Cliffyunder300

the most amazing place on earth

posted Oct 12th, 2010 12:09 am

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brendan

the biggestloser is great

posted Oct 6th, 2010 8:58 am

Joyce

Please tell me all about this ranch. cost, etc., MOST IMPORTANT: let me hear from women 60 years and older who have been to the ranch. Tell me your story. Thanks

posted Sep 29th, 2010 4:02 pm

Brandi

I recently had the opportunity to spend a week at the Biggest Loser Resort in Ivins, UT and have to say it's one of the best experiences I've ever had. The friendly, familial environment is supportive and encouraging, as well as makes you feel right at home. Physically I've never pushed myself harder and I came home feeling stronger, fitter and more energetic. The food is some of the best I've ever had and I'm anxious to replicate some of the meals here at home to share with my family. The hikes will take your breath away - both from the physical demand but also the beauty of the scenery.

posted Sep 27th, 2010 4:35 pm

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Chris

I live in the about 10 miles from the biggest loser resort. I was shocked the biggest loser would associate thier name with this resort. For the past 20 years there were 2 health/weight loss resorts in town, green valley spa and red mountain. Over the year many celebrites have gone to these 2 places and both though pricey have had many positive reviews with locals. Fitness ridge is a local joke, it was started by a few employees of other places, it is next to a junk yard and a foreclosed subdivision, and has limited services compared to other places in the area. The place just looks like a fitness prison, while the green valley spa with 25 years experience has lush gardens and beautiful rooms and red mountain has beautiful trails and nice rooms. Someone had asked about medical tests personal, I do not think any have this. Remember this area is remote. there is a hospital but with limited services. I have to drive 600 miles to a pedtrician! and there is no one who specializes in diabetes, hormone issues, or weight loss.
I feel like Fitness ridge got really lucky with this endorsement. Besides contestants from the show I have not seen any celebrites visiting fitness ridge in the last year but plenty go to the other 2 resorts to get fit before movies or lose baby weight and the prices are all about the same. Please do your research before trying a place just because a name is on it!

posted May 22nd, 2010 4:57 pm

Staceyann C. Dolenti

Does the price include the price of a medical exam and blood tests?

posted May 11th, 2010 6:24 pm

Deena

They do have the prices posted on their websight. People talking about the cost being too expensive, a healthy life is priceless. As soon as I can save my money....I AM GOING TO THE RESORT!!!

posted Apr 20th, 2010 10:29 pm

Connie

Well, looking at the prices that have been posted. Must be nice to have that kind of money to splurge. Guess I will be once again doing alot of walking and follow the Atkins Diet. Worked for me before. It is my burden, I will just have to make do.

posted Mar 31st, 2010 12:25 am

Connie

I have a girlfriend that has been trying to get me to do "The Biggest Loser" show. When I found out about this ranch, i thought it might be an option, one I really need to consider. The knowledge of the cost will be the determining factor.

posted Mar 31st, 2010 12:17 am

MARIE GARDELLA

I NEED THIS SO BADLY, I HAVE A BREATHING PROBLEM AND SOME OF IT IS CAUSED =BY BEING MORBID OBESE , MY ONLY PROBLEM IS DO U HAVE A FITNESS PROGRAM FOR PPL WHO ARE MEDICALLY UNFIT TOO, PLEASE I MUST LOSE THIS WEIGHT AND I NEED UR HELP

posted Mar 15th, 2010 8:34 pm

jennefer

can we strat a biggest loser ranch for kids under 18 so kids that are under 18 can get fit without wating till thay are 18 . this will help kids alot and help prvent hertatakes when thay are older . needs help in pennsylvnia. 10 years old 180 pounds

posted Feb 9th, 2010 9:32 pm

Sally

If you want to see the rates.....google, biggest loser fitness ridge in Utah and you will find all you need to know. In addition, if you stay longer than the time specified you get the weekly rate cheaper, and if you share a room, cheaper still. I am going in March 2010 and paying 1300. dollars a week. You get excercise, food, board, use of pool and trainers and you lose weight. I have checked out rates of other places and this one wins hands down as far as prices! Some places actually charge per excercise class and actually charge for hiking as well. YIKES!

posted Jan 22nd, 2010 10:58 am

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