Half The Man He used to be: Indonesian David Gurnani lost 50 per cent of his body weight to take the top prize

DAVID Gurnani has never been so happy to be called a loser.

On Tuesday, the 25-year-old Indonesian salesman was crowned Asia's first Biggest Loser on the reality show.

Originally weighing in at 159kg, Gurnani lost a faintly incredible 83kg, beating out the other three finalists: Manila's Carlo Antonio Miguel, 32; Kuala Lumpur's Aaron Mokhtar, 30; and Hong Kong's Martha Lai, 20.



"I am half the man I was!" said Gurnani over the phone from Selangor after the show's finale shoot.

Actually, he's a little less than half of what he used to be. Gurnani lost an amazing 53 per cent of his body weight, but the US$100,000 ($140,000) prize money and brand new Renault car he won should add a few kilos.

"I feel so much healthier and fitter - not just physically, but mentally. The way I see things has definitely changed because of The Biggest Loser Asia. Now I can buy clothes in normal stores - no more big-sized clothes.

"This is a complete transformation, not just a change."



Perhaps the second happiest person, after himself, is his fiancee. "She's been telling me for so long: 'Come on, lose weight, lose weight'," said Gurnani, chuckling. "I would say, 'Okay, next week, next week' - but the next week never came."

Singaporean Marilyn Tay, who was the last person eliminated before the final four emerged, said she had hoped to represent her country in the finals, but "I did my best, and whatever happened is already done." Well, losing 42kg on the show and another 12kg after returning home makes her no small loser, either.

"I didn't want to go out and see people. Every day of my life, people were staring at me and making remarks and giving me The Look," she said.

"Today, I can go out ... I feel normal. I feel like a new person," she said.



The 30-year-old signed up to be the Biggest Loser because her weight was affecting her chances of getting pregnant. That's no longer an issue for Tay, who can now see herself "getting there and doing it".

Both Gurnani and Tay agree that one of the highlights of their journey is the friends they have made. "Fifteen other people came to this competition sharing the same burden of obesity," said Gurnani. "Underneath the fat, they are such beautiful people with beautiful personalities. (They've) become like a family to me from all over Asia."

Sunday Inquirer Magazine featured Carlo Miguels Weight Loss Journey

FEATURE : This Big Loser is a Huge Winner

By Leica Carpo
Contributor
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Posted date: March 27, 2010

He’s only runner-up in “The Biggest Loser Asia” reality show, but for Sala and Sala Bistro chef Carlo Miguel, losing 49 kg (108 lbs) is, like the ad says, priceless

THE EVIL twin to this nation’s favorite pastime of eating is, ironically enough, endless talk about weight loss.

If the chatter has been more frenzied than usual in the past few weeks, blame it on Hallmark Channel’s reality TV show, “The Biggest Loser Asia,” which had among its final four Carlo Miguel, the thirtysomething executive chef of Sala and Sala Bistro.

No, Carlo didn’t win the $100,000 pot and the car; this Indonesian guy who lost 83 kg (182 lbs) beat him to it. But Carlo considers himself a huge winner in this show that has a group of grossly overweight individuals fighting a battle royale on the scale. Whoever loses the most poundage over a three-month period of closely-supervised exercise and diet routine, wins.

Carlo says he is quite satisfied with the final outcome, “I never entered the show for the money. I would have done it for no money. Health is wealth and being fit, being able to live long and spend quality time with family is priceless to me. Worth all the pain and hard work.”

At 6’2” and 132 kg (290 lbs), Carlo was used to being called “fat.” Chubby since he was eight, he was definitely considered obese by his adolescent years. It was only after the show, in March 2010, and now weighing 83 kg (182 lbs) that he finds himself being described as “normal” and shopping for clothes in regular sized boutiques.



Along with the new wardrobe came a different and more serious sense of self. “Being more energetic makes my day to day life so much easier. But I think that the best thing is that I feel I’m now in control of my life and my weight,” he declares.

The route to this newfound self-respect wasn’t easy. He had to lose at least 49 kg (108 lbs) and endure separation from his newly pregnant wife for three months. But she kept him going, says Carlo. “The image of my wife smiling and telling me how happy and proud she is of me when I eventually return home would spur me on and even bring me to tears at times.”

Keeping the pounds off is just as tough. Killer workouts aside, he had to learn to curb his appetite while maintaining the passion for food that defines his living. This chef has acquired a new habit: spitting out the food he cooks after tasting it to keep his frame lean.

He says: “Being the executive chef at Sala and Sala Bistro presents the biggest challenge as this is where all my uncounted and uncontrolled calories come from. It also fills my days and keeps me from working out at times.” He had to learn to deal with it, he adds, because “never [making] excuses is now part of my life.”



Carlo’s story and those of other contestants on the show has become a source of inspiration to many, portraying as it did how real-life losers can become huge winners by sheer dint of will and discipline.

So what advice does Carlo have for people starting on a weight loss program but have found themselves reaching a plateau in their progress?



There are no miracle diets or effortless exercise programs, he says. “You have to be prepared to go where others haven’t gone before. It is purely a lifestyle change and the only ways to achieve results are through discipline and hard work. As for reaching a plateau, the only way out is to smash through it by increasing your intensity.”
In a SIM interview, Carlo shares his other thoughts on weight loss:

Sunday Inquirer Magazine (SIM): The common impression is that fat people are happy. Are you still happy, or are you happier now?

Carlo Miguel (CM): I am definitely happier and more energetic. I feel great because I now have control over my weight.

SIM: What is your next health goal?

CM: I want to balance my eating and training towards a regime that can be set for life. I believe that I am at the stage when weight loss is no longer necessary. I would like to gain a little muscle and perhaps, after my wife gives birth, we can train together towards completing a triathlon.

SIM: How has weight loss affected your career, family life and sex life?

CM: As for my career, I am generally more energetic so I can get more things done. I also think of balance and health when creating new dishes. My family life has been most rewarding as I now have a new lease on life at home. I used to be too tired to do anything when I get home from work, sometimes falling asleep mid-conversation with my wife. Now I feel that I am truly a functioning member of my family with the energy to be an active husband and father to my wife and daughter on the way. As for my sex life, I am a gentleman, so let’s just say that stamina helps a lot.

SIM: What do you eat regularly? What about on cheat days?

CM: I usually eat lean protein such as fish or egg whites, lots of fruits, vegetables and grains with little refinement such as whole wheat bread. On cheat days, I sometimes indulge in a low-fat sugar-free frozen yogurt or sushi. I love the clean flavors of Japanese food.

SIM: How often do you work out?

CM: At the ranch (in Malaysia, where the contestants of “The Biggest Loser Asia” stayed), we were training up to 12 hours a day. When I was still competing, I try to work out at least four hours a day. With the show over, I plan to maintain about an hour or one hour and a half hours of workout a day to keep healthy.

SIM: Would you do this again?

CM: Yes I would, as I am so overwhelmed with the results.

SIM: Would you gain all (the pounds) back for money?

CM: Not a chance. Money does not drive me at all. It’s not what matters in life. I never went into this for the money.

David Gurnani at Grand Indonesia Mall for Question and Answer Session

Beloved Fans and Friends of The Biggest Loser Asia, 'Let's defeat obesity once and for all', for those of you wonderful people in Jakarta,Indonesia, come to Grand Indonesia Mall for a meet and greet on Saturday 27th march at 2pm it will be held in the fountain area,I'll be there to answer your questions on how we can defeat obesity once and for all and start healthy living and it would be an honour and pleasure to meet all of you passionate fans and friends.

The "LOSE BIG" Program Launch at the New World Hotel, Makati City

Here we are promoting the launch of the awesome new weight-loss programmed from Fitness First, the Lose Big Programmed! The night was hosted by Gelli Victor and featured the Filipino Biggest Loser Asia contestants! Of course, blue team trainer and Fitness First Regional Manager Dave Nuku was also there to tell us more about the programmed. It was a great night, and I was happy to see my fellow cast-mates again, along with meeting many fans! Enjoy these photos!

Check out latest pictures of King David!

‘I can control my body’ -Chef Carlo Miguel

How he lost 83 lbs in three months
HE STARTED GAINING weight at age 7. By the time he got into his teens, he was overweight. When he hit his late teens, he was officially obese. And when he reached his 20s, he was morbidly obese.

At his heaviest, at 166 kg (360 lbs), he found himself complaining at having to do the simplest of errands: “Oh my God, I have to walk there?”

He had hypertension, high cholesterol and obstructive sleep apnea—mainly because of lugging around all that excess weight.



Today, with roughly 7.3 percent body fat on him and a resting heart rate to match that of an athlete at 43 beats per minute, Carlo Miguel, second placer in the recently concluded “Biggest Loser Asia,” feels like a teenager all over again.

“I’ve never been below 100 kg as a teenager. Now, at 83 kg, I can run around all day and not get tired. If I need to run off somewhere, I’m there—no problem,” said the 32-year-old 6’3” Miguel.

He was so determined to lose all the excess weight that before he left for the show he gave away all his clothes to the “Ondoy” victims—all five balikbayan boxfuls. He took with him his workout clothes, and clothes gifted to him that he never got to wear because they were too small.

“I knew I wasn’t coming back the same person,” he said.

Today, happy to be home, all pumped up and eager to impart his personal knowledge of weight loss
to those who seek his help, Miguel said his brain still needs to do a lot of catching up with his new body.

He may look trim to everyone, but in his mind he still thinks he’s the big, jolly chef. (Miguel is the executive chef of Sala and Sala Bistro.) He braces himself, for instance, before bending to tie his shoelaces. On some evenings, he still walks around the bed to get in from the side because he still thinks he’ll have a hard time crawling around toward where he would be comfortable.

“Sometimes I forget I can just go right ahead and jump into the bed,” he said, laughing.

Everything just happened so fast. During the five months he spent in the “Biggest Loser Asia” (more than two months in the ranch; more than two months home), he trimmed down from 132 kg (291 lbs) to 83 kg (182 lbs). Toward the end of the program he was exercising 12 hours a day, running 15-20 km per day. (They started walking at 10 km per day.)

Understatement

To say it’s a huge accomplishment for someone who never even used to enjoy walking is an understatement. For Miguel, it’s something he never thought was possible. Now, he actually loves running.

“If you told me this midway last year, I would have laughed at you. I never believed I could do what I have done. It’s been an amazing journey,” he said.

So how did he do it?

Like all reality TV shows, the “Biggest Loser Asia” isolates its participants from the rest of the world. Miguel had no contact with anyone outside the show, no access to sources of information such as the Internet, newspapers, radio and television. (The only time he was allowed to Skype was when his wife Ria got pregnant—mainly because it made a great story for the show.)

Simply put, they had nothing better to do but focus on diet and exercise every single day. On their first week they worked out four hours a day—two hours in the morning, then a long break in between, then another two hours in the afternoon. This gradually progressed to six hours per day, then eight, then 10, before reaching the final 12-hour workout program per day.

“I wouldn’t recommend to anyone doing what we did. It’s unrealistic to live your life working out, say, six hours a day. There’s a big difference about getting yourself healthy and losing weight for a competition. What we did is extremely exhilarating compared to what one would normally do,” he said.

More professional

As a chef, Miguel doesn’t trust anyone these days to prepare the food he eats. An additional teaspoon of oil could easily add up to 70-80 calories, he said. So, he prepares his own meals. He has also developed a way of working around the kitchen: He tastes the food he prepares and spits it out to avoid consuming unnecessary calories.

Eating for work and eating for his consumption needs to be defined, he said: “I just had to become more professional rather than eat my way through the whole day.”

Miguel used to be able to go through an entire day without actually having to sit through a meal, although this meant he would be constantly picking on the rich food around him. Today, he eats five times a day—holistic, low-fat food with lots of greens and mostly lean meat.

“If I needed some fat in my diet, I could eat the skin off a chicken, but I would never deep-fry my chicken,” he said.

He cautions, though, that people may not see any dramatic changes in the Sala and Sala Bistro menu, because people’s idea of a celebration meal is still rich food. He hopes, however, to someday study nutrition and come up with meal plans
for people wanting to lose, gain or maintain weight.

“There are a lot of reasons, emotionally and mentally, why people are fat,” he said. “Right now I really want to help them. If I can do it, anybody else can.”

Greatest thing

He also plans to take up courses to become a certified RPM (spinning) and Body Pump class instructor at Fitness First, where he has been a member since 2007. (He trimmed down from 360 lbs to 291 in two years, he said, but had a hard time getting the number to go down even further because he couldn’t manage his busy work schedule.)

“The greatest thing I have learned from this experience is, I can control my body. I can control what weight I’m gonna be, how I’m gonna get there, how much muscle and fat I want. I am in control now. That’s the greatest thing I have achieved,” Miguel said.

From starting his day at 11 a.m. Miguel is now bursting with energy at 7:30 a.m.; his hypertension, high cholesterol and obstructive sleep apnea long gone.

He stayed away from building muscles during competition because it would make him weigh more, but now he wants to muscle up. Next step, he said, is to be a father to his future daughter. Then he and his wife could work together to join their first triathlon, which would eventually lead them to joining an Iron Man.

And at Fitness First, he will be seen more—this time as a class instructor.

Jay talks to Asia's first Biggest Loser DAVID GURNANI!

The Lose Big Programme Finally Launch!!

Christine White (TBLA contestant) is inviting everyone to join the Lose Big Program Launch and lose weight Biggest Loser Asia style! On March 24, the Philippine BLA contestants, Dave Nuku and myself will be there. Guys if you’re ready to change your life and cut the fat then this is the program for you. Registration is free, but hurry and join now because slots are limited. Hope to see you there! http://timetolosebig.com/index/index?c=MY&lang=eng

The Biggest Loser Asia Season 2 Audition Open Now!!

Well season 1 is over and much drama, memories and emotional feelings are hard to forget but nevertheless, season 2 audition is now on!! so fell free to visit http://www.biggestloserasia.com/ and start applying...you might not know that you may be chosen for this program. So what are you waiting for!?

The Biggest Loser Asia Transformation Season 1 "BEFORE and AFTER" !!!

DAVID GURNANI

CARLO MIGUEL

AARON MOKHTAR

MARTHA LAI

Fans and contestants having up close and personal photoshoot!!

ZENNY winner from "Home Contestant"

David Gurnani is the first Biggest Loser Asia!!

9 March 2010, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – With a total loss of 83kg, Indonesian David Gurnani, 25, has become the first ever Biggest Loser of Asia, beating the other finalists in the most taxing, strenuous and physically demanding competition ever crafted.

Tipping the scales at 157kg when he first entered the unscripted show last November on Hallmark Channel, King David, as he was nicknamed throughout the show for constantly topping the ranking board with his consecutive weight loss, shed a total of 55 kg in the penultimate episode of the contest, and another 28kg by the final round, to triumph against fellow competitors, Filipino Carlo Miguel, 32, Hong Konger Martha Lai, 20, and home favorite from Kuala Lumpur, Aaron Mokhtar, 30.

Following an amazing body weight loss percentage of 53%, King David walks away with the US$100,000 prize money, as well as a brand new Renault car.

But most importantly, he zips away a lot lighter and with his head held high as the first ever winner of Hallmark Channel’s immensely popular Biggest Loser Asia.

Growing up with an overindulgent passion for food, eating has provided him his biggest thrill but with a fiancée on the side, and a future to look forward to, the change was to have good health and long life.

David says, “I never thought that I would say this, but it feels great to be a loser. Asia’s Biggest Loser! It’s by the grace of God that I have won especially with strong competitors like Carlo and Aaron. I still am amazed by my transformation. I’ve been overweight all my life and have never felt healthier and stronger than I do now. Thank you Hallmark Channel for giving me this life-changing opportunity.”

At the finals, the contestants were tested further. Besides being judge by their total weight loss percentage, they were weighed on their overall fat loss percentage too, showing a transformation figure they have achieved so far. David reaches an astounding transformation figure of 98 and has emerged the ultimate winner.

Nonetheless, The remaining three contestants in the finals have achieved much in their journey as well.

First runner up, Filipino Carlo Miguel, was not even in the original line-up of competitors and was brought in to replace fellow Pinoy contestant, Del Bacho, who had to bow out of the show due to a dislocated elbow. With a weight loss of 49kg (body weight loss percentage of 37.1%), Carlo has done himself proud to come in at an amazing 83kg and transformation digit of 64.

Following them is Malaysian Aaron Mokhtar, 30, who went from 159kg in the beginning, to losing 60kg in the process. Now weighing a lean 99kg (body weight loss percentage of 37.7%), he can return home to his two young daughters as the same father, but a different man. His total transformation digit was 63, just one point behind Carlo.

And rounding up the final four is. Martha Lai, 20, from Hong Kong, who, as the only female and youngest contestant in the top four finalists, shed a whopping 40kg (body weight loss percentage of 31.5%), to drop from 127kg in the beginning, to an amazing 87kg at the end. Martha’s total transformation digit was 49.

Reaching audiences all across Asia on Hallmark Channel, The Biggest Loser Asia has been a ratings darling for the Hallmark Channel in Asia. With a Facebook fan page that more than quadrupled from about 3,200 to 16,500 members since the show started airing last November, fans have come from as far as United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands to show their support.

The show has been a huge hit in Malaysia, where the show is set, drawing in the best performing market for The Biggest Loser Asia. Ratings have been climbing since the show premiered last November and Hallmark Channel consistently garnered the #1 position amongst all English Astro channels in Malaysia for the past five weeks with The Biggest Loser Asia timeslot.

Karen Johnston, Director of Programming APAC, Universal Networks International says, “The Biggest Loser Asia is Hallmark Channel’s top rated show for the very reason why people are drawn to it – its contestants. The contestants from all across Asia have bravely shared their personal journey of struggles and triumphs in the quest for a new lease of life, and have won the hearts of Asian audiences. Hallmark Channel is proud to be a part of this life-changing opportunity that has made an indelible mark on their lives as well as of our viewers.”

Riaz Mehta, Executive Producer of The Biggest Loser Asia says, “When I see the amazing transformation in the contestants, I feel we have achieved what we set out to do – change lives forever. We have also shown to millions of people that suffer obesity each day of their lives that a new and healthy way of life is a realistic and achievable goal and we are here to help. The Biggest Loser’s unique ability to reach, educate and entertain its audience makes it a truly invaluable vehicle to all our stakeholders. My special thanks to our Bumiputra partners Osys Group for helping us bring this show to Malaysia and supporting this journey.”

Over 2,000 contestants from across Asia applied to be a part of this unscripted reality show, with two trainers putting them through three months of vigorous boot camp, to be the first to participate in the Asian non-scripted show.Cellfood Natural Weight Loss Formula, 4-Ounce Bottle

Episode 13: “In Full Gear”

With Tony voted off, only 5 remain in the Villa. Nothing much is being said, as the 4 ex-Blue teammates and Carlo sit down to dissect the evening. Carlo can sense that Tony’s departure has left a void for the former Blue team, but he also feels that there was strategy at work at the concluded elimination.

"To a certain extent, the former Blue teammates aren't thinking about Blue team anymore. If they were, they would have voted off Martha because Tony had a better chance of overtaking me. Perhaps we will see more of a 'every man for themselves' sort of attitude in this last week."

Everyone is clearly divided on his or her own opinions. David is upset with Aaron for voting Tony off, and feels that he unfairly sent home someone who deserved to stay.



Martha is still upset that Tony is no longer around while Marilyn voices her own despair, knowing that at the end of it all, it was her immunity ticket that sent him home. She encourages Martha to work harder than ever before, for Tony's sake. Martha agrees to do whatever it takes to get ahead and promises to follow Carlo's routine, so that she can mirror his success on the scales.

Back outside, the boys are still in discussion and David acknowledges Carlo's incredible weight loss and tells him "Out of all the Red team members, you deserve to be here." But beyond the admiration lies fierce competition. David minces no words as he makes it more than obvious that the 4 remaining Blues will be gunning for Carlo with single-minded focus this week.

The next morning, the contestants are taken on a surprise trip to Kuala Lumpur! Their destination is a gym where Dave and Kristy are eagerly waiting for the last 5. As they all walk in, the former Blue team members are dragging their feet, as they are not looking forward to telling Dave about Tony's departure. Carlo on the other hand is all smiles. Kristy cannot contain her happiness as she sees him still in the game, and gives him a big hug.

Kristy gushes, "When I saw Carlo finally walk in I just couldn't help myself, I had to give him a big hug because I knew how hard we both had worked that week in order to get him across the line."

Kristy's mood is a direct contrast to how Dave greets his former Blues. Here, Aaron reveals that at the end of the day, he has to think of himself and that is why he got rid of Tony.

Dave tells the 5 gathered in front of him & Kristy, that the time to leave all second thoughts and regrets has passed and the time to look ahead and keep the grand prize in mind has come. He explains to them that the session planned for them at the gym is designed to equip each of them with skills that will help them in the real world - beyond the walls of the Biggest Loser camp.

The training session that follows is intense, but it also forces the contestants to realize that their trainers will not be around for them when they go back home.

At the end of the session, Kristy throws another surprise at the contestants. They all head to the Toni&Guy Salon to get a special makeover. They are all smiles as the staff welcomes them to their personal pampering session.


The five are more than pleased at the end. Their fresh faces, trendy hairstyles and completely transformed looks mirror their new lives that lie in front of them.

Carlo declares, "I feel ten years younger man. If I could go home to my wife and my family looking like this, I think my wife's jaw is going to hit the floor when she sees me."

The contestants exude a new confidence as they walk towards the last challenge of the competition. Sarimah greets all of them by a pond in the Afomosa Resort and explains the task at hand.

Giant clear Zorb balls are lined up by the shore for each of them. Each contestant is required to get into these life-size balls and roll their way to the finish line on the water where the first contestant to reach the finish line will be declared the winner of the thrilling challenge. Winning the challenge too means that he or she will get a golden immunity ticket that will land him or her a spot at the finals, on top of a RM$1000 shopping voucher.

On Sarimah's cue they each tumble into the water and try their best to control the ball. Scrambling, rolling, crawling - they each try a different strategy to get the ball to move towards the finish line. But of all 5 struggling contestants, the only one person who manages to crack the secret formula to control the ball is Martha. She gets on all fours and starts a frantic crawl inside the ball. This clearly gives her an edge over the others and before anyone else is able catch up with her, Martha crosses the finish line.

An elated Martha is thrilled to get a spot in the finale, "When I actually crossed the finish line, the feeling was like, finally, I won a challenge and it was the most important one!"


Sarimah congratulates her on her hard fought win and as she announces the first finalist to make it to the grand finale of Biggest Loser in Asia. And so it's hard to ignore the fact that, the girl who has been below the yellow line each week since the singles weigh-in started, is now closer than ever to the big prize.

Martha then goes on a shopping spree with her reward money. With her old clothes no longer fitting her, she is eager to pick up some new threads. It isn't difficult for her to spend the prize money as she walks into different shops and tries on new styles. Because of her former plus size, Martha hasn't bought clothes off the rack for a long time and she thoroughly enjoys this experience.

Back at camp, Marilyn & Aaron are both pushing themselves beyond their capacity to make sure they are far from below the yellow line. And it is Aaron who notices, "Since winning immunity, Martha has not really slacked off but has decreased intensity during training sessions."

Life at the villa in the last few days has a different feel to it. The remaining four people who are hungry for a spot in the final four are doing their bit in watching their diet. But not Martha who is eating pretty much anything that she can lay her hands on.

For the final "Last Chance Workout" Kristy & Dave come up to the villa to take the contestants for a workout that will not only burn calories, but also remind them about this incredible milestone they have achieved. The workout is a run around the entire campsite. And the run turns out to be a moment of reflection for all the remaining 5 contestants. As they run with their trainers, they each remember why they wanted to be here in this competition and what they have learnt while being on this journey.


And soon it's time for the penultimate last Weigh-In. Martha is the only one who has a smile on her face as they all walk in to find out the truth - whether they have made it to the coveted final four list or not.

"I want this. I want to be in the final four. I worked so hard and I'm just this close. I'm just praying very hard now that I don't go below the yellow line," says Marilyn, echoing the thoughts of the men on the team.

Sarimah welcomes them to this crucial Weigh In and reminds each of them about the journey that they have all been on to reach this "fitter, healthier" version of themselves. Sarimah then catches the contestants completely by surprise by inviting the trainers - Kristy & Dave into the Weigh In room. The reason for this is that this Weigh In is going to be slightly different from all the previous Weigh Ins. This one will end with one person going home immediately - this is going to be a Weigh-In Elimination!

As the contestants digest this news, Martha lightly steps onto the scales with a smile on her face. As a "1" appears on the board, Martha bursts into laughter - "I was happy with the I kilo loss because honestly I was expecting a gain. I've been slacking off for the whole week because I had immunity."

Even with a weight loss of 23.62% Martha is safer than she'll ever be. King David, the undisputed leader of most Weigh Ins is next in line. Having started the competition with 157 kilograms as his weight, David stands proud on the scales. He is more than just pleased with his 4 kilo loss for the week as that makes his total weight loss stand at a whopping 55 kilograms. Top of the weigh loss rankings for a fourth consecutive week David's total weight loss percentage of 35.03% seems unbeatable. For now... And just before stepping down, he gives his trainer, Dave a big hug, thanking him for all that he has done for him.

His archrival, former Red team member Carlo follows David up on the scales. He is reasonably happy with his 3 kilo weight loss for the week, but is most eager for his total weight loss percentage to show up, as that will determine how far or close he is to the yellow line. He is satisfied with his total weight loss percentage of 31.82% and is hopeful that it will be enough to give him that much desired spot in the final four. A person who has been nervous about falling below the yellow line a second week in a row, Marilyn steps up on the scales. Standing in her usual, confident 'hands on hips' pose, Marilyn is a little disappointed as she sees a 3 up on the board indicating her weight loss for the week. Her 26.58% percentage of total weight lost seems to make her disappointment even more acute.


And the pressure is now on the last man in line - Aaron. His eyes are shut as the numbers are scrambling on the board and he seems to be praying hard for a decent weight loss for this crucial week. As the 2 appears on the board, Aaron's face falls. He isn't sure if his percentage is enough to keep him in the game. The tension in the room is palpable and is dispelled only with the appearance of 28.93% on the board.

This immediately pushes him just below Carlo, to the third spot in the weight loss rankings. And with this, Martha's name goes below the yellow line. But she is the one with the golden ticket. She is the one who cannot be sent home. And with that Marilyn's name moves below the yellow line.

With tears flowing down her face, Marilyn accepts Sarimah's instructions and leaves the Weigh-In room with a heavy heart. She walks out of the competition knowing that she did her best and at the end of the day she has a lot to look forward to back at home.

She says, "Even though I have lost so much I want to be slim before I want to have children so that I can be healthy for them, have more energy for them. And be a better role model as well."

And with that Sarimah bids them farewell and wishes them luck for this final chapter of their journey - a chapter that will have temptation, and hardship and lack of support from their trainers. As they walk out of the gym for the last time, they are each hopeful that they have learnt enough here on the Biggest Loser camp to survive it all.

Episode 12: “Last Man Standing”

Kevin’s departure from the competition seems to have left a void. Everyone in the room seems to be lost in their own thoughts. Currently, only 6 contestants are left in the competition, with five former Blue team members and only one former Red team member, Carlo.

The strong alliance between the former Blue team members is still apparent, and as David puts it, “Carlo is the only man standing left from the Red team and the former Blue team will try to do our best to eliminate Carlo because that has been our goal.”

Carlo is clearly aware that he is threading on dangerous grounds this week, as all guns will be pointing towards him. However, it seems that this has spurred him on further to stay in the competition.

“It makes me want to work extra hard, to stay above that yellow line so that they have no chance to vote me off. I am not going home till I am finished. I’m going all the way”, says Carlo with determination.

The morning after elimination, the remaining contestants gather at the villa.

Kristy is obviously disappointed in discovering that Kevin was not around, saying, “Martha had lost 0 weight. She virtually doesn’t need this competition anymore. And yet they get rid of Kevin who so desperately needs to be here.”

However, it is obvious now to everyone that the former Blues will never vote against each other. Carlo then hands over a letter to Kristy left for her by Kevin. Written behind a photo taken on the first day, Kevin’s words break her heart, especially when Kevin stated how she had changed his life.

Dave then talks to everyone gathered around, emphasizing more than ever on the fact that it is going to be their weight loss or an immunity ticket that will save them from going home, and urges them not to slack off.

With renewed vigour, the six remaining contestants hit the gym. The former Blues work out harder than before, evident with the sweat running down their faces. Dave gives them an extra push and reminds them that it is imperative that they maintain their positions in the rankings and constantly keep the yellow line in sight, so that they can do whatever it takes to stay above it.

The last man standing from the former Red team, Carlo, takes a walk with Kristy. Sharing their thoughts on how tough the competition has become, both Carlo & Kristy are aware that right now, not only does Carlo need to train like never before, he also needs a bit of luck to stay in the competition.

Kristy voices her concern, saying, “Carlo doesn’t have as much weight to lose, unlike Aaron, David or Tony. So it’s a lot harder for him.”

Keeping his spirits high, Carlo walks up to the challenge with the Filipino flag wrapped around his shoulders. Upon seeing the row of baskets which were covering platters underneath, Carlo knows that they are all in for a tough challenge this week.

Sarimah explains to the contestants that they must eat whatever is under the baskets on the table to win immunity, along with a special prize. However, for this challenge, the contestants are given the option to opt out and not take part. With the tempting prize of winning immunity, not one contestant is willing to give up on this opportunity, and they all choose to take part, unsurprisingly. On the count of three, they all lift the baskets, revealing what they have to consume to win this challenge – jelly.

As each bowl of jelly contains 2,545 calories, the contestants know that this is going to be no mean feat! On Sarimah’s count, the challenge begins.

Abandoning her spoon, Marilyn starts scooping up the jelly to give her an edge over the others. Soon after, she gives up her chair as well. Slurping, gulping and swallowing, the contestants try every possible trick to work their way through the sugary bowl in the fastest time possible. However, moments later, David decides that it is too much for him. Tony, Martha, Aaron soon follow suit as well.


Now, the competition is just down to Marilyn and Carlo. Almost gagging on the jelly, the two refuse to give up. Marilyn starts to complain about her stomach hurting, but even that doesn’t stop her. Her former Blue teammates are cheering her on, eager for her to win the immunity rather than Carlo. It is now down to the last few mouthfuls, and Marilyn manages to swallow the jelly just seconds before Carlo!

Marilyn is overjoyed at having won immunity, but it just gets better. Sarimah tells her about the special prize she has won as well – a helicopter ride across Kuala Lumpur to take in the spectacular views of the city from above! Taking her position in the chopper, she can hardly wait to be off in the air.

Back in training, the six contestants get into the swing of things quickly. They know that each of them still has a big task in front of them – to stay above the yellow line. Without a doubt, this uphill task is the hardest for Carlo. With Marilyn winning immunity, he has to make sure that he beats Tony’s weight loss for the week.

Kristy and Dave then take the contestants for a surprise work out. With Stephan Fox, the Vice President of the World Muay Thai Council leading the way, six muay thai fighters are ready to put the contestants through a memorable work out session. Constantly motivating and pushing the contestants, the muay thai professionals take training to new heights for the contestants. The pace is relentless and there is no slacking off.

For ‘Last Chance Workout’, Kristy decides to take Carlo for a run. Knowing that he wasn’t able to win immunity at the challenge, Kristy is more than just concerned about Carlo’s position in the competition, with the former Blues watching out for each other.

Soon, it is time for the weigh-in. With just six contestants remaining gathered in front of Sarimah, the room feels emptier than ever. Having won immunity, Marilyn starts the weigh-in. With a starting weight of 158 kilograms, Marilyn has lost a total of 36 kilograms to date. Her smile is one of relief and satisfaction as she sees three kilograms on the board as her week’s weight loss, with a respectable 24.68% of total weight loss percentage.

Tony’s apprehension is evident as he slowly steps on the scales next. Like Marilyn, he too is relieved with his week’s weight loss. He has lost four kilograms this week. With a total weight loss percentage of 27.21 %, Tony overtakes Marilyn on the rankings.


Aaron’s weight loss of four kilograms for the week pushes his total percentage of weight loss to 27.67%, catching up with Tony and at the same time taking the much-coveted top spot in the rankings.

Following him is his former Blue teammate Martha. Having lost no weight at all the previous week, she is keen to get up on the scales and see if her hard work has paid off, but as a number three comes up on the board, Martha’s disappointment is obvious. She knows that her 22.83% of total weight loss percentage may not be enough to keep her above the yellow line.

Martha had expected to gain a greater weight loss number this week, saying, “Because I lost no weight the previous week, I was expecting this week would be a bigger weight loss. I did work very hard, so I was quite confident that I would pull a four or five.”

Next in line is someone who is more than used to seeing his name in the first position in the rankings – King David. His six kilograms loss for the week impresses everyone in the room. He throws his hands in the air and is overjoyed as he realises that he has broken the 50 kilograms mark in his weight loss journey. As he celebrates his 32.48% of total weight loss percentage, Martha’s heart sinks as she sees her name move below the yellow line.

Carlo gets up on stage next, but remains calm and tells Sarimah that "It’s in God’s hands.”

However, the pressure on him is apparent, and as he steps on the scales, he knows that he needs at least 2 kilograms to beat Tony, who is his immediate competitor as far as the weight loss ranking for the week is concerned.

The room echoes with a loud gasp and a single loud cheer as a massive number nine shows up on the board. Tony hangs his head low as Carlo celebrates his incredible weight loss. With his total weight loss percentage standing at 29.55%, Carlo races straight to number two in the rankings, right behind David.


Ecstatic and more confident than ever, Carlo exclaims, “Nine kilos is the most I have ever lost in this whole competition. I can’t emphasize how much I needed a number like that at this stage. It set me up really well for the final week. I am going to work every bit as hard as I did, if not harder to make sure I have a place in the top four.”

The six contestants walk out of the weigh-in room with heavy hearts, knowing that a tough task is waiting for them back at the villa. The deliberation is quieter than usual. Tony acknowledges Carlo’s nine kilograms weight loss, but not forgetting to ask Martha how she is feeling.

Everyone has their own deliberations this elimination. Aaron feels torn between having to choose between two people whom he cares deeply for. Meanwhile, Marilyn is feeling guilty that it was her immunity that caused Tony to be pushed below the yellow line. Tony talks to his roommate David separately and explains to him that he must not feel sorry for either him or Martha because at the end of the day, someone has to go home.

Sarimah welcomes them to this tough elimination and points out the fact that the trio consisting of David, Martha & Tony is about to be broken up. She reminds David of how he has always talked about never voting off a Blue team member and asks him how he is feeling at the moment.

David can only say, "Now the time has come and I have made my decision and you know it’s a part of the game.”

The mood in the elimination room has never been heavier and emotions are running high.


The elimination process starts with the Biggest Loser of the week, Carlo. He is more than just honest as he tells everyone that the person he has voted for is his immediate threat and it is no surprise that it is Tony’s name on the card. David has clearly been dreading this part of the competition and is almost reluctant as he lifts the lid on the platter. David’s vote is for Martha. With a vote each for Tony and Martha, it was Marilyn’s turn to vote. She puts Tony’s name on her card.
This leaves Aaron to be the last person to share his vote. Before he reveals his vote, Sarimah takes the chance to remind the contestants that if Aaron votes for Martha and there is a tie, the decision will be based on Tony & Martha’s individual total weight loss percentage. Since Tony’s weight loss percentage is higher than Martha’s, his fate lies in Aaron’s hands.

Having a similar game plan as Carlo, Aaron bases his decision on strategy, voting off the bigger threat to him in the competition – he reveals Tony’s name on the card.

With three votes against him, Tony has to leave the competition.

Just before leaving the room, Tony reminds everyone that he has “no regrets”, but he is sad that he is leaving behind “a brother, a sister and a great competitor”.

With that, Tony’s journey has come to an end, leaving five remaining contestants to fight it out for the ultimate title of being Asia first Biggest Loser.
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