Weight loss competition to be held to bring a new focus on healthy living

WDIV-TV, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and The Parade Company will launch The Biggest Loser: Detroit Edition contest on Monday, August 31. Six contestants from Metro Detroit have been selected from approximately 200 applicants to compete in this 12-week weight loss challenge to be featured on ClickonDetroit.com.

"The Biggest Loser is one of the most popular programs, and America's Thanksgiving Parade is one of our treasured traditions on Local 4," said Marla Drutz, WDIV vice president and general manager. "By partnering with Blue Cross Blue Shield and The Parade Company, this will be a great opportunity for our entire community to begin a new focus on healthy living. It's sure to be an exciting competition."

All six contestants will come together during a kick off party at The Parade Company where they will each weigh-in for the first time and begin their journey to better health.

"We are so excited to partner with Blue Cross Blue Shield and WDIV on the Biggest Loser: Detroit Edition," said Tony Michaels, president and CEO, The Parade Company. "This program encourages healthy eating and exercising and we, along with our partners, look forward to helping people take the first step toward a healthier lifestyle."

The emphasis on healthy lifestyles was the attraction for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan's involvement.

"The Blues are committed to Michigan's health through our unique mission and believe in supporting healthy lifestyles," said Ken Dallafior, BCBSM senior vice president of group sales and corporate marketing. "That's why we're proud to join forces with WDIV-TV and The Parade Company for The Biggest Loser: Detroit Edition contest."

To guide the contestants through this weight loss journey, the Blues will provide each contestant a health coach who will meet with them once a week to provide nutrition and exercise advice. Together, BCBSM and WDIV-TV will track the progress of each contestant on ClickonDetroit.com, through blog and video posts.

The fitness program will be based on the NBC hit series The Biggest Loser, which begins its 8th season on Tuesday, Sept. 15.

On Thursday, Nov. 26, one contestant will be named winner of The Biggest Loser: Detroit Edition and Honorary Grand Marshall of America's Thanksgiving Parade, televised live on WDIV.

"It's about eating well and exercising to lose weight," said Dallafior. "And the Michigan Blues are looking forward to helping people take the first step toward a healthier lifestyle."