Winning by Losing: Drop the Weight, Change Your Life

• #8 in Best Weight Loss Books

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Jillian Michaels, the tough-talking personal trainer of the Red Team on "The Biggest Loser", brings her no-nonsense personality to this diet and exercise book. Not another "just eat less and move more" tome, Jillian actually acknowledges that there is an individual approach to losing weight, and that no correct way will work for everyone.
I have watched both seasons of The Biggest Loser, and I thought of Jillian as an abrasive woman who never had a weight problem in her life. I thought that she was tough on her "clients" because she looked down on them for being overweight. After reading her book, I have changed my opinion.

In the first section of the book that focuses on Self, Jillian states that she had a weight problem that had emotional roots (like mine), and that she had to value herself first, and then loose weight. In the next section, Science, Jillian demonstrates how to "crunch the numbers" to help us understand how our body works in relation to weight loss. Next, she goes on to explain the different ways that we process foods. Using this information, we can tailor a diet to suit our bodies. I learned that I was a "slow oxidizer", which means that I need 65% carbs, 25% protein, and 15% fat. This explained why I could never loose weight on Atkins (no low-carb craze for me). In the last section, Sweat, Jillian gives us the benefits of exercise as well as descriptions of various exercises (weight lifting).

This book is great, and not another typical weight-loss book. Utilizing common sense, knowledge, and, perhaps most importantly, a no-gimmick point of view, Jillian explains, encourages, and talks tough when she has to.

Keep telling it like is, Jillian. And thanks.

This is a very good book for all beginners in the exercise/weight loss arena. Jillian dispenses a lot of tips, support and encouragement.

She also provides a test to find out what type of 'oxidizer' (the way you burn nutrients) you are which helps you decide your nutrition plan.

Jillian explains how to calculate the calories needed for each person each day and how to vary your caloric intake to keep your metabolism from slowing.

She explains carbs and the way they break down in your system and provides some insight into the GI (Glycemic Index). Jillian also goes over the good and bad fats and why you need fat in your diet.

She covers label reading and helps the reader learn how to pick out healthier foods by reading their labels. She also provides tips to reduce the calories of foods you eat and receipes you make.

Jillian goes over cardio exercise - when to do it, how often and what types work best. She then discusses circuit weight training and how often and when to participate in these types of exercises.

The last third of the book is the Exercise Index where Jillian covers a wide variety of strength training exercises and provides instructions and photos showing exactly how to perform these exercises. Included in this section is a 12 week program for the reader to follow.

All in all I really liked her book. All beginners or even those that would like to pick up and extra tip or two should give it a read. Jillian covers all the basics and a little more then some weight loss books in that she also covers doing the 'internal work' before beginning a weight loss program.

Between the internal work, the science of weight loss, the sweat part you need to do and going over basic anatomy tips this book has a little bit of everything.

I have never posted a review on amazon or anything else for that matter in my life.
I recently went to hear Jillian lecture with some friends at a book signing in Los Angeles and couldn't believe how inspiring she was. She is tough on the Biggest Loser and I thought she was just like any other perfect bodied, know it all, celebrity trainer that could never relate to someone like me. but tonight I realized she really gets it. Even though it seemed like everyone there loved her book I just didn't want to buy it.
I have purchased 3 diet/fitness books in the past 2 months and have failed to open any of them, not to mention the 150$ "Body Makeover " program I purchased last week. (I'm all ready over it......too involved). I had to put a stop to it. I went to Barnes and Noble just to skim through her book for a bit and meet her and then of course I ended up buying it. I really think this was money well spent however.
I know that the fad diets, pills, books and programs that I have invested in are eventually going to fail but I just can't seem to stop. I don't know if anyone here is like me but I feel like I have so much knowledge that I have accumulated over the years by obsessing over new and old diet trends. Knowing what to do isn't the problem. It's getting off my but and doing it. From the few pages I read so far, I was so relieved at her realistic and undersatnding yet tough no excuses attitude.
Finally!!! Someone who doesn't insult me by telling me "just eat right and exersise and don't try to lose more than a pound per week. It's simple."
She knows that there is more to it. She spends a chapter on the emotional connection to weight issues and then cuts right to the chase with guidelines and basic science to figure out the best eating and excersise habits that work for YOU . It's not hundreds of pages of stuff I already know. It is short sweet and to the point. Thank you so much Jilian!!! I am sorry I under estimated you. You really are an inspiration. Sorry about the length......

This book is fantastic! It is divided into 3 categories, Self, Science, and Sweat.

In Self, she teaches you how to build a support groups and revamp your negative self image and filter out those individuals in your life that are harmful to your health.

In Science, she teaches you how to calculate your BMR and AMR so that you can create a weekly caloric regiment specifically gear towards your bodies unique. She also helps you to determine what type of oxiderizer you are (slow, balanced, or fast) so that you can determine the ratio of carbs, proteins, and fats your body needs. Then she gives you a list of foods that are optimal for your body type and weight loss goals.

In Sweat she gives a detailed 12 week fitness workout along with an index of specific workouts and with alterations for various fitness levels.

I bought this book a month ago, and so far, I have lost 8 lbs (2 pounds a week). This book restored my faith in myself and my ability to lose the weight and keep it off.

She also gives tips on how to measure foods with your hands to maintain proper portion control.

THIS BOOK ROCKS!!!!!!!

Watching the show and reading this book helped me to lose a very stubborn 27 pounds. With a "Take No Prisoners" approach Jilliam Micheaels lays it on the line, motivating readers to "tweak" their program, taking it to the next level (or getting couch potatos to get off their rears and into action).

This is an edgy, honest book. It doesn't soft pedal the truth. To lose weight, to be healthy, you have to sweat and work. There isn't a way around that. But there ARE ways to adapt fitness to your SPECIFIC body type and this is what I found to be most helpful about this book.

MOst importantly, Michaels has been there. She was overweight. She was unhappy. SHe was out of shape. This lends a lot of credence to her book.

When you get to help people make life-altering changes in their life week after week in front of millions of television viewers, there is undoubtedly a sense of pride and accomplishment that goes along with that. For Jillian Roberts, that is only the beginning of the reward she gets to enjoy as she helps people overcome their weight loss struggles and start to believe in themselves in her new book called Winning By Losing.

As one of two personal trainers on the hit NBC television reality show "The Biggest Loser" (read my review of "The Biggest Loser" book and my exclusive interview with the show's other trainer, Bob Harper, at LivinLaVidaLowCarb.com), Michaels is known as a tough cookie who doesn't tolerate whining and complaining when it comes to getting healthy. That same vigor and bullheaded resolve is on full display in Winning By Losing.

Michaels is a contrast in style within herself inasmuch as she comes across as a bully with a boorish attitude on the one hand and then can be as a kind, gentle sister encouraging and cheering you on the next. You never really know which Jillian you're gonna get, but that's what makes her so effective in what she does as a motivator and life coach for the contestants on "The Biggest Loser." She takes those same qualities and writes them down in Winning By Losing in an easily communicated message of hope for anyone desiring lasting weight loss and excellent overall health in her new book.

Winning By Losing uses a "triple threat approach to total health" by focusing on three specific areas: Self, Science, and Sweat.

In the Self section, Michaels says people need to get real about losing weight, make the necessary changes emotionally and mentally to do it for real this time, and begin creating healthy eating habits that will help them for the rest of their life.

In the Science section, she explains how your body loses weight, how your metabolism works, which carbs and fats are good for you and bad for you, carefully reading food labels, and tips for eating right at home and when eating out.

Finally, in the Sweat section, what would you expect from Jillian Michaels? Move, baby, move! She details the basic anatomy of the human body and why we need good cardio workouts on a regular basis for the rest of our lives to get and stay healthy.

Michaels is quick to point out that Winning By Losing is not about "instant gratification" or even losing weight by only investing only "eight minutes in the morning" (oh, I knew I loved Jillian, but her slam on Jorge Cruise just makes my day! YOU GO GIRL!). Instead she says if you are willing to invest a little hard work into making this happen, then you will be capable of accomplishing anything you want.

As a 180+ pound weight loss success, I can vouch for the fact that your confidence in what you do increases exponentially after shedding that much weight. People who have never struggled with their weight can never understand the freedom and power that comes from taking back control of your life even after you think there was no hope left for you. Jillian will tell you that coming to the realization that you have a weight problem and then pro-actively dealing with it is the ultimate key to changing your life forever (you can read more about my weight loss success story in my book "Livin' La Vida Low-Carb").

I know she has talks about this a lot on "The Biggest Loser" show, but Michaels has not always had the beautifully sculpted body you see on the front cover of Winning By Losing. She recalls painful memories of being overweight that led to a lot of "emotional baggage" that could have devasted her life forever. But thanks in part to martial arts, she was able to channel that negative energy she carried around and transform it into the vibrant and enthusiastic person she has become today.

Winning By Losing encompasses Michael's sincere desire to help people help themselves with whatever struggle they may be having. If someone is carrying around 100 pounds of extra weight that they don't need, then her book can help them realize that they are not destined to stay there if they are willing to make the necessary changes in their own life to bring about lasting results that will literally change their life forever. Allow her to pull out that fire-breathing animal inside of you just begging to get your body into tip-top shape.

Jillian Michaels is literally turning big losers (of weight, that is!) into big winners in life! She can help you, too!

I have to admit--I've watched both seasons of The Biggest Loser and Bob has always been my favorite of the two trainers. So, when I saw Jillian's book, I was hesitant at first about whether I wanted to buy it. However, I just finished reading it today and I have to say that I am impressed. She provides a lot of helpful information both on the eating side and on the exercise side. She has tests or formulas to help you--such as the test that tells you whether you are a slow, fast or balanced oxidizer...she explains how to determine your maximum heart rate so you can work out at the correct intensity, etc.

I must say I was quite surprised to see that there is only an hour of cardio (really only 50 minutes once you factor in warm up and cool down) a week in her plan. This surprised me because, watching the show for two seasons, you always see the contestants struggling and sweating on the bike, elliptical or treadmill doing cardio. Granted, Jillian's way of doing weight/resistance training will get you sweating as well!

I thought the book was strong and impressive overall. My only disappointment was in the first third or so of the book. I thought that some subjects such as emotional eating were ridiculously over-simplified and given short shrift. The message I took away from some of these chapters was "OKay, now I've explained in a page and a half why you shouldn't do that, so just get over it now, mmmkay?" I understand that no book is going to be able to cure emotional eating in a chapter, but I would have rather she admitted that she didn't have time or experience to cover it fully and perhaps suggest some additional reading rather than go with the "POOF! You're cured!" approach.

One of her real strengths is to be able to explain some rather complicated concepts about how the body metabolizes food or how the muscles work and make it readily understandable. Her book could have easily veered into the too-scientific, but it didn't. It was like sitting and having someone give you the heart-to-heart talk you know you need but have been scared to hear. Yea, she's tough, but she obviously cares as well.

I was a member of the red team on Season 1 of "The Biggest Loser". I am walking, living proof that Jillian Michaels gets results and changes lives. I had lived my whole life until age 28 as an overweight and at times obese woman. Today at 29 I am 92 pounds thinner and immeasurably happier. I thought I was destined to be "fat". Well no more. I read Jillian's book, which details our regime on the ranch, and reccommend it to anyone struggling to lose weight in a healthy, life affirming way. This is not a quick fix scheme, this is a life change that finally teaches us to get real results. Hey, the next best thing to hiring a world class trainer is having the knowledge of one, this book gives that opportunity to anyone. Buy it and make a purchase you'll never regret!

Jillian Michael's book is simple, pragmatic, easy to follow, and most importantly, realistic.

I've been overweight or obese from the time I was eight onward. I am now twenty and will soon face health problems as a result. I've given up on virtually every program, and had failed at a recent stint with Weight Watchers, so I was almost content with embracing my size and accepting myself, even if others treated me differently as a result. I saw Jillian's book over the internet and figured that I might as well give it a try to kick off the new semester at my college.

I have to say that I am pleasantly surprised! Over an eight week period of following her program, not always perfectly, I've lost a total of 15 lb and have significantly increased my muscle mass. I feel much stronger and it is very easy to walk. I also feel more satisfied at meals. Granted, I still have about 30 lb to go before I reach a healthy weight range, and I'm sure I'll deal with a plateau, but the first results are definitely inspiring!

If nothing else, Jillian's book has taught me that weight loss is possible for just about anyone. It's all rooted in an equation. There's no celebrity muck, 'get slim quick,' or 'look like a superstar' crap. That's another reason that I love this book.

I think the simplicity of it all is the best part. The author provides you with a simple equation to calculate the calories you need per day, and adding this to your activity levels, you can easily find out what you need to eat to lose a certain amount of weight each week. Plus, you can vary your intake depending on how you feel, as long as you stay under that caloric marker.

The info about macronutrient ratios was also very helpful. I have never,e ver felt satisfied on a diet of high carbohydrates. I felt weak and tired, leading me to believe that losing weight was impossible. But after testing as a balanced oxidizer in her book, I realized that I can eat a variety of food in proportions that are satisfying and still manage to lose weight without feeling tired or groggy.

Jillian's exercise portion, I'll admit, is pretty tough. But my muscles soon became accomodated and I was able to build up weight quickly. It's worth it because the program will really accelerate the changes in your body. In eight weeks (the first three I didn't even incorporate the exercises!) I graduated squats with 25 lb. dumbells and a leg press with over 150 lbs, which isn't bad considering that I'm a short female with no natural propensity toward fitness. I credit the fast improvements to her program.

The best part about her program is that nearly anyone can do it. You probably need access to a gym, so I wish she'd provide more home exercises, but other than that, I have no criticisms. She doesn't overload you with too much information, either, so it's not difficult to get started. Plus, she doesn't entice you to bogus nutritional supplements, like the Body for Life Program has done. In short, 5 stars!

I'm someone that already works out 5 to 6 days a week and have read A LOT on the subject of fitness and nutrition. I was honestly skeptical and a little cynical about this book just because Jillian is a "TV Trainer" (snark, snark!), but I was feeling really unmotivated after the holidays and I was trawling Amazon for some new books to get me re-motivated, and hopefully to teach me something new. I read all the great reviews on here, which sparked my interest in the work out she outlined... So I bought it! Okay, let me just say, I LOVE THIS BOOK! If you are starting out, this book is really all you need. Jillian doesn't subscribe to any fitness myths and fads, everything she preaches is time tested and will get you results if you follow it. There are no gimmicks, so you have to follow a healthy diet and do the (hard!) work. I read some earlier criticism that she skimmed over the "Self" portion of the book, which goes over getting past your food and self-esteem issues, but really, this is not her job. Even if you wrote a 1000 page book on the subject, it's not going to be enough to help most people get past their emotional problems. Otherwise everyone would pick up a Dr Phil book on self-esteem and be "cured", right? It's just like with the rest of the book, you read the information given to you and do your own work, no trainer or author can fix your life for you, they can only point you in the right direction and give you some of those tools to help you get there. Anyhow, back to fitness, I really feel that this book reinforced everything I already knew, taught me a few things I didn't (I'm a balanced oxidizer! No more high fat CKD's for me!) and really MOTIVATED me. I'm also really enjoying her workout. It's really challenging and exactly what I needed. I was so bored with my old weight routine, I just didn't know how to go about changing it. 5 Stars from me, all the way!

I know this is a book that will truly change the face of health and wellness. I believe this from the bottom of my heart.

When my wife bought this book for me I refused to crack open the cover. I was frustrated from trying so many diets that failed, and not getting anywhere. I finally gave in, read the first page, and haven't looked back.

There are plenty of guides that promise to deliver the latest magic bullet. They will tell you what to eat and how to train and then leave you wondering, "Why can't I stick with this?"

What makes Winning By Losing unique is that the book begins with something many others do not: inspiration.

The book quickly moves to another aspect most people forget to consider, but is the most important muscle to train: your mind. I don't remember following any diet or reading any other book at the time that forced me to sit down and really consider my goals, my reasons, and what I was willing to sacrifice for the greater good. It was the ability to tap into a "why" or passionate reason to change that enabled me to overcome obstacles and gain enough momentum to finally transform.

Jillian also does a great job of explaining why there is no one size fits all approach to nutrition / diet. She introduces the concept that we all have different nutrition requirements in order to maximize our metabolism and her book is interactive in order to help you find the foods and calories that are right for you. She isn't strict though. She makes a point in her book to say that "there is room for unhealthy foods in a healthy lifestyle". In fact, Michaels believes that if you don't incorporate those "unhealthy" treats into your life you are setting yourself up for failure.

You won't be overburdened with scientific explanations of kinesiology and physiology in the exercise section. Instead Michaels explains her unique fitness philosophy with simple descriptions and straightforward illustrations of exercises and how to do them.

The 12 week exercise program takes out any guesswork by telling you EXACTLY what to do and how to do it. Some people may find her fitness regimen to hard and I encourage you to explore other methods that may fit better into your schedule and, more importantly, your enjoyment.

Over all, I believe this will be the masterpiece that shakes the diet and fitness industry and changes many lives. This book takes the ordinary person and shows them that they have the power to be extraordinary. It is changing my life, and if you are open to the message, it may change yours as well.

I have done it all....susan Powter, Atkins, Pritikin, The Cabbage diet, Opti-fast the list goes on and on and on. I really am (was) lazy...I mean I hate hate HATE exercise. This is honest to God the first book that has made a difference for me.
First, there is a plethora of information that you can use to figure out a diet plan SPECIFICALLY for you and your body type. I know I know, every book tout's this claim, but Jillian delivered it. I sat down one morning with my coffee and mapped a plan in a notebook that made me see how step by step I could actually change my body. There is something about seeing it that way on paper that makes you think...Hmmm I can really do this.
Second, The SWEAT part....Oh how I LOVE LOVE LOVE this part...even thought I DESPISE exercise. I have found that I can tolerate her workouts very well and I am seeing more results than I did even when I was doing The FIRM tapes and my elliptical. I have a signifcant amount of fat on me and I cannot tolerate any jumping around or high intensity workouts. I have a one year old AND a 4 year old. So it is wonderful that I do not have to go to the gym, I just sit right down in my living room and do it. The kids crawl all over me and watch me sweat like a pig, it's great. There is extensive instructions on each and every move she asks you to do.
Ok, my only complaints are.
EATING.....I don't do good at deciding how to eat healthy. I need more menu ideas and maybe if she could tell us how she or even the contestants on the show eat. I would really have loved that information to add to my plan. I feel like she did not go deeply enough into the "What to eat topic"
Exercise.... Because some (only some) of the exercise's she has you do require gym equipment, I would have liked her to include instructions on how to modify the workouts or even the specific moves for home work out folks like me. Also,I have managed to hurt my knee doing another very popular workout that inclued stepping up and down off a 14 inch bench. So I would also like to have heard modifications for the squats and other moves that are painful for my knees.
But ultimately, I really love the book. I am significantly overweight and If I can do this anyone can.

I had never watched an episode of "The Biggest Loser" prior to reading this book, but my friends had told me how great the show is and how great Jillian was at motivating the contestants. Then, another of my friends bought the book. I flipped through it and had to get my own copy. The circuit workouts in the book are top notch. I am a professional athlete and have a background in physical education, and these are the best circuits I have ever done. Her advice on nutrition and exercise should be followed by every American.

I like evaluating new diet books now and then out of simple curiousity and to pick them apart.

I have never watched the show Jillian Michaels is on - The Biggest Loser. The title is a real turn off. I bought this book expecting to hate it. I thought it was at best going to be a piece of fluff and at worse a dangerous misinformed and unrealistic weight loss program that would prey on the desperation of overweight people.

Jillian's program is in fact exactly the opposite. Winning By Losing is the most honest, informative, comprehensive weight loss book I have ever read. Her passion for what she does leaps off the pages in the books SELF section and it is obvious to anyone who reads the diet section that she is an expert in her field. I am refrerring this book to any of my clients who are looking for a real solution to their weight loss problems.

Lastly, this book is reader friendly, simple to understand, and well laid out. However even if you follow it to a 'T', you'll be doing the same thing you've always had to do to lose weight- eat less and exercise more. This book is no-nonsense and well worth reading for anyone who wants to get serious about losing the weight - permanantly.

I was a contestant on The Biggest Loser and Jillian was my trainer. She created my diet and exercise regimen for me and only me. It is the one and only time in my life I have been successful at losing weight... and keeping it off. In her book Winning By Losing she will teach you how to individualize your weight loss regimen so you succeed in the battle of the bulge once and for all! This book is the next best thing to having your own world class fitness guru at your side pushing and encouraging you to "drop the weigh and change your life". In her book Winning By Losing she teaches you how many calories YOU should be eating and what types of foods are right for your unique metabolism. Where exercise is concerned she will guide you through a 12 week exercise program and teach you everything you need to know about how to work out in the most effective way possible. She will also educate you about how your feelings and your behaviors affect your weight and show you how to commit all your mental resources towards change. She is amazing... and so is her book. If you are the person who has struggled with weight your entire life, buy Jillian's book... it will be the best gift you ever give yourself.

I've only started reading the first two chapters of this book, and already I find myself considering new possibilities about how I view myself and food!

Winning by Losing is 3 books in one. It covers diet and exercise, but it also teaches you how to get your mind and heart in order. This book is about changing the way you look at yourself, why you want to lose weight, what you expect to happen when you reach your goal, what are you willing to do to make that happen. Bottom line... Jillian covers all the bases, educates, and inspires you to be the best you that you can be.

There is no doubt that Jillian Michaels is an expert in her field. Just enough to look at the before and after of the contestants on the biggest loser... I love fact that Jillian takes it slowly and does not make empty promises of "easy quick fixes". That said, I have been doing her program for 4 weeks now and have lost 27lbs. She not only teaches you how to identify a diet that is right for you, but she also presents some sensible dieting rules like identifying the difference between good carbs and bad carbs or reading food labels, tips for eating out and so on. She addresses emotional eating and offers real solutions for conquering it. Her fitness program is also extremely effective and I think the key to the rapid weight loss aspect of her regimen. Overall this is a great book and unlike any I have ever read, which is saying a lot for a weight loss book

What I like so much about this book is the fact that it is interactive. It has formulas and quizes to help you identify how many calories you burn in a day, how many calories you burn doing all different types of exercise, what types of foods you should be eating and which of the popular diets are ideal for you and why. It even gives you a weight chart so you can define your weight loss goals. There is nothing missing from this book. Jillian has chapters on label reading, eating out, a detailed 12 week exercise program. Seriously, for the person willing to do the work - you can't go wrong here because she puts the power in your hands!

I am just your average woman...5'2", 152#, 8 1/2 shoe, size 12 dress, BMI 25 and 44 years old. I received Jillian Michael's book "Winning By Losing" and read it all in one night. It is interesting, clear, informative and easy to understand. For the first time I am thinking about what I should be eating, not just making food for a meal to feed my family, but what foods will help me be the best I can be. I can really see a difference and more importantly, feel a difference. My face looks more angular and not so puffy. My clothes already feel looser and more comfortable. I feel better about how I look and more importantly, how I feel. This isn't a fad diet that you need to try to "stick with"-it is a reasonable way of life. I am teaching my two teenagers some of the principles in Winning By Losing and am encouraged to see that they like what they see at home.

For the first time in years, I am taking time to take care of me, which of course, trickles down to my family in many ways. So while I may be an "average" woman, I feel like I am so much more than that and worth the time it takes to become the best I can be. With help from "Winning By Losing" as a point of reference and guidance, I feel like it is my turn.

This book is such a wonderful source of information. I read all of the reviews on this site and there are three that are negative. It is clear that these people never read Jillian's book and it my assumption that they are forming an opinion of the book based on their feelings about her tv show, The Biggest Loser. Jillian's book is in no way strict or unrealistic. In fact the whole point of the book is to provide you with knowledge to make informed healthy choices and occasional unhealthy ones when tempered with moderation and common sense. It happens to be the most thorough and heart felt weight loss book I have ever read and for that reason I feel compelled to recommend it. Jillian's book is not a "diet" book it is a clear cut path to a new healthy way of life. Even if you don't buy it... go to your local library and check it out. It's worth it.

A friend of mine did the program and I was shocked at the difference in her body after just 10 weeks! I figured the contestants on the biggest loser did alot more then Jillian's book recommends, but my girlfriend stuck to the program in Jillian's book to the letter and her "before" and "after" photos thus far look as good if not better than some on the female contestants.

I just finished my 4th week on Jillian's program and I am pleasantly surprised at my ability to stick with it! You have to be committed in order to maintain the 4 times a week workout, but they are not so grueling that you dread them. I strongly recommend taking a before picture and then doing so every two weeks. PICTURES DONT LIE! And seeing the results goes a long way to keeping you motivated!

I have tried both Atkins and South Beach diet and have lost weight ( and a pant size) on both. But at the end of the first month or so, I had gotten to my goal weight and definately looked thinner but was still "soft" in appearance and ultimately I ended up putting the weight back on. I like this plan alot better since it helped me create a healthy way to eat that I can stick with for the rest of my life.

One caution, however, is the weights required. You do need to invest in some type of equipment or gym membership. Otherwise it is hard to do her workouts- which is one of her three keys to the fantastic results.

Losing weight involves changing many aspects of your life. This book proves that you can make a life change and how you can do it. Not only does it give the best diet and exercise information I have ever seen, it addresses the personal reasons for a struggle with weight and health. It is straight about what you can do to change your life not promise quick fixes. The diet is easy to understand and personalize. The exercise section is comprehensive and the combination of cardio and weight training has made a huge impact on my personal regimen. I have seen results through her methods when others have left me frustrated.

This book is motivational and packed with great ways to change your life. I highly recommend this book to anyone. You will learn why you may have had struggles in the past, how to change those triggers and a healthy, effective approach to eating and exercise.

For those of you who know her from NBC's "The Biggest Loser", the results Jillian Michaels gets with her clients are obviously unbelievable. Now you can have her by your side, as your own personal trainer, with this great book.

Finally, here is a book that is not only full of groundbreaking insight but is equally sensitive and motivating.
I happen to have had the priviledge of training with Jillian Michaels and her method and inspiration helped me get into the best shape of my life. This book has everything you need to get yourself on the road to fitness and a healthy lifestyle.
Her approach is all encompassing and very easy to work with. Great for beginners and experts alike. There's something for everybody to learn and grow from here. Reading it made me feel like she was right there with me, pushing me to another level. She's not only an expert in her field but what makes her so special is the compassion with which she operates. It makes all the difference. Trust me, I know!
I highly recommend this book and its companion video/dvd's.
There are so many programs out there but THIS ONE WORKS!
I've done it and continue to work with it.
Try it...you won't regret it. Good luck.

Jillian's book was the most informative book about weight loss that I have ever read. If you are like me you have probably read ever weight loss book on the market, but the thing that makes Jillian's different is that she tells you what about each diet book or program is effective and what isn't. I felt like she really cleared up all the "diet confusion" that I have struggled with in the past and so far I have lost 30lbs with her program in 10 weeks. If you are serious about losing weight Jillian's book is a must have!

Jillian,

I just want to say...thank you. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! You have given me my life back!

For years I've tried dieting, I've tried exercising, I've tried everything. I was never successful with it. I've always thought there was something missing. I never quite understood what "it" was.

After hitting rock bottom on March 10th, 2006 I weighed my heaviest in my life. I've always watched TBL and have been inspired by you, Bob, and the contestants. I decided right then and there that I needed to change my life once and for all.

I ordered your book "Winning By Losing" and your DVDs. I was really scared that it would just be another in my collection of "lose weight you fatty" books. I was so wrong.

In your book, I finally found "it". I'm very much an "A+B=C" person and to finally have someone break down the Science of weightloss....well...it just did wonders. I finally understand what I need to do. It almost seems too simple, but for years I never understood. I've always understood calories in vs calories out, but I still never quite got it. Thanks to you I know specifically what it is now.

Thank you. I can't believe how easy it seems. You've opened up a brand new world for me and I can now see clearly. The lightbulb finally went on! I know it will be tough, I know I'll have my ups and downs, but for the first time in my life I feel that I'm in control. I can and will do this. I don't see this as a diet. I see it as a lifestyle change (which I've never done with any other program). I know I'll need support from people along the way but I will do this. I promise I will make you proud.

I wanted to get on TBL so that you could beat the heck out of me, and this is my TBL. When I get tired and don't want to continue I can almost hear you say "get up you girl" and it inspires me to go on. Maybe I watch the show too much. Or maybe I just know that your personality is perfect for my needs.

Your DVDs are great, and honestly the big thing that keeps me going back to them (as stupid as this sounds) is you at the end saying "I'll see you tomorrow". So keep up the great work.

This is my first full week on your program, I've lost 7lbs since Monday (today is Thurs) and I have no doubt I can continue this. I want to lose 109 lbs total and become a better man, and be the athlete I once was many years ago.

I know now, thanks to you, I can accomplish this. Sorry for rambling on, but I just thought I would let you know that you have changed a complete stranger's life. If there is anything I can ever do for you please let me know. You've done so much for me...you've given me my life back.

THANK YOU!

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is struggling with weight loss. I have tried so many diets out there and have fallen off the wagon. Winning By Losing is different. It is simple, clear cut, and comprehensive. This book teaches you how to create your own diet and how to make smart choices. It teaches you everything you need to know about diet and nutrition in its Science section. It teaches you everything you need to know about working out in its Sweat section. But I was most impressed with a section called Self which addresses all emotional and psychological aspects of weight loss. This book really helps and motivates you to change your attitude and consequently your life.

Jillian Michaels is a breath of fresh air in the world of fitness. As so many build gyms and develop new machines and distribute more pills, Jillian gets down to the basics that work. No pie in the sky, no gaining muscle while you take a nap claims, she goes to the heart of the matter. If you want to be fit and you want to stay fit, start working and start changing.

I have read many of her outputs and this is one more in a long line of valuable documents with her name on it. I recommend this book and anything else she writes.

This book WILL change your life! It doesn't matter if you have 20 pounds or 200 pounds to lose. This book, with Jillian's, NO BS attitude is nothing short of phenomenal! I bought it for all the people who are important in my life!

Seriously, this is a fabulous book and explains a lot of things about exercise that I didn't know before. Well worth the cost and the read.

The book is a great source of information about your body! It clears up all the conflicting information you hear from all the fad diets and answers your questions with solid "scientific" answers. I think it should be required reading for anyone embarking on a weight loss journey. It focuses on all areas to help get you back on track with your health: mind, body, and soul. It gives you guidelines to follow but isn't a rigid plan. The Winning By Losing program provides you with the knowledge and information to develop your own individualized lifestyle for healthy living. I highly recommend the book.

This book is amazing. It is one of the most informative, well-written, and clearly explained books of its kind. And, to top it off, Jillian Michaels is FUNNY! Michaels very wittily explains the basics-- and more-- of how your emotions and your behaviors can sabotage your weight loss, on how to individualize your nutrition program so you can maximize your metabolism, and the most effective way to working out so you shed fat and tone your physique. I laughed out loud when reading her tongue-in-cheek humor while absorbing all the information she was sharing. She fully explains her 12 week exercise regimen with photographs and illustrations, and then also gives the reader derivatives of those exercises so that one can vary their workout as recommended.

I completely recommend this book. Michaels tells it to you straight with humor and caring so you can achive results once and for all.

"Winning By Losing" is an excellent book if you're a fitness beginner who's trying to figure out how to eat healthy, but not feel deprived and how to get in shape and stay in shape. This book is also an asset to someone who's been working out and/or dieting for a while and doesn't seem to be making much headway towards losing weight and getting in shape. Michaels does a good job of outlining and extremely effective fitness regimen and debunking a lot of the more prevalent diet myths. She covers the proper way to exercise, both aerobics and weight training, proper diet, not some fad diet but rather how to eat real food in a healthy way, and how to motivate yourself and keep yourself motivated to stick to your goals. This is NOT a "quick-fix" program, it is meant to be a new way of life. If you do not have the motivation or the willpower, it won't work. But for me, it has made me a new person. I have so much more confidence in myself and am so proud of myself that I have the discipline to do this and I am seeing such fantastic results. I have gone from 25% body fat to 20% in 4 weeks. I have a two pack now.

This is a great book. I absolutely hate reading, but this book is so interesting that I read it in just two days. It's awesome and everyone should buy it!

I attended Jillian's lecture in Hazlet, New Jersey on Sept. 6 and she was very inspiring. I was with my sister; whom convinced me and a few other ladies in our circle to go. I have around 80lbs to lose and have been struggling with weight issues my entire life. Jillian was nothing like I expected. I was even a little intimidated going there thinking she would be so strict and acting above us all when in fact she was the opposite! Warm, understanding, funny, self-deprecating and she made "me" feel like a million bucks. She stayed after the lecture to speak to each of us individually and had kind encouraging words for all of us. I wish I lived closer to her - I'd recruit her as my trainer. p.s. they showed her fat photo on season one of the biggest loser - she still looked very pretty anyway in my opinion.

I totally agree with Jillian's philosophy and the book is a great read!! I would definitely recommend this book to a friend - its very thorough and a very complete read... it really makes you confront yourself and get serious about fitness and health. Her philosophy of SELF, SCIENCE and SWEAT are really the keys to shedding the fat and toning up... it takes a certain mindset and driving focus to get real results. Jillian has some great things to say!!

This book is great. Very thorough. Detailed diet plan, exercise routines... everything. She basically answers every questions about how the contestants lost the weight on the show.

I have a BS in health and fitness and am always looking for good material. I think those of us in health and fitness can always learn from each other even if we don't always agree.
I really like this book beacause it was easy to understand and it gets to the point. It is a good guide for people who need some good solid information about how to change their lives.

All good sound advice. Jillian just repeats what has already been written and stated for the dieters of the world.

If you've never read a health and fitness book before, this would be just as good as many out there because it gives you all of the basics. But if you are looking for new information, don't waste your money. Everything in this book has been written by others before.

Now, first let me say that I am a total skeptic of everything. When I saw "The Biggest Loser", I thought something was wrong. How could anyone lose that kind of weight and still be healthy in such a short amount of time?

I have been in a weight fight for a couple of years now since a very hard time in my life. I tried EVERYTHING and was pretty much unsuccessful. So, in reading the reviews of Jillian's book, I decided to give it a shot. I am so glad I did. Not only could I not put the book down when I started reading (and books like this are usually torture for me to read) but I now have a complete understanding of how food and calories and such work. In my first week on Jillian's plan, I lost 8.5 pounds without even working out, just from changing my diet! One of my best friends was so impressed with my results and everything I was telling her, she asked me to buy her a copy!

Best book out there, and its for people who want to change their lives, not just try another fad diet. And this is not for the faint of heart either. You need to want to change, to want to be healthy. This is the book to do that and more.

Good luck to anyone out there trying to shed pounds and feel and look better!

If you haven't read Winning By Losing, put down your low-carb drink, spoonful of cabbage water, or that miracle diet pill. This is the weight loss program we've all been waiting for. This book tells you exactly how to tranform mentally and physically into your best self ever! It's NOT a diet--it's an amazingly simple and smart lifestyle that REALLY works! Look no further and stop dieting. Get this book and read it--your life will change.

Don't waste your money buying this book! The information in it is the same stuff you can read in any fitness magazine.

I read this book and also joined Jillian's online weight loss program, I've lost a total of 8 lbs in 4 weeks, just enough to get me started. This book and the online program really works plus they dont try to sell you too many worthless stuff like everybody else.

I purchased her book and DVD's I recently just started about a week ago and I have already lost 5 pounds. She tells it like it is and that is what I needed someone who has been there where I am now. I totally recommened her products because they work and will continue to work as long as you beleive in yourself

Thanks Jillian

For those reviewers that insist that this book isn't helpful for anyone that knows about nutrition and exercise, I beg to differ! I had done Body-for-Life four years ago and had great results. Well, I let myself go, and in January, after four years of yo-yo dieting and exercise, I decided to get back in gear. I went for what worked in the past and started BFL again. Well, I lost about 10 pounds in the first 8 weeks and then stalled. I was ramping up my workouts constantly to keep my body challenged, but nothing was working. I finished the 12 week BFL challenge and had only lost 10 pounds total. I have about 30 to lose, so this was really disappointing because BFL is very strict--and I was militant about the eating and exercise.

Someone recommended this book to me, so I checked it out. I've never watched The Biggest Loser, so I didn't know who Jillian Michaels was. I read it cover to cover, and I'll admit, I was skeptical. It turns out I'm a "fast oxidizer." But there isn't much research backing Jillian's "oxidizer" theory, so I was really afraid to mess up my diet. Once I figured I'd try it out, I changed my protein/carb/fat ratios to 50/20/30 instead of BFL's 40/40/20. I also cycled my calories every day as Jillian suggests, to keep my metabolism from adjusting to a constant caloric intake. Then I got a heart rate monitor, and made sure to keep my heart rate up during weight training sessions by jumping rope or doing jumping jacks between sets. I never would have thought to implement these changes without this book, but I'm 2 weeks into the program and have already lost 5 pounds! That's half of what I lost after 12 weeks on BFL!

Yes, this is mostly common sense stuff that you can find in multiple places--including online. But when it's all put together in front of me, it finally made sense. It outlines reasons why people experience plateaus and how to kick them. For me, it was just what I needed. And I wasn't annoyed by Jillian's approach to fitness. It is no-nonsense, and it was perfect for me.

I really liked the book. It teaches you how to read food labels and understand them. It also teaches you what you need to do in order to lose the weight and eat propely. It works with your body style once you figure out what it is suppose to be and how it will work for you personally. Also makes you aware of what you are eating and how it effects you. I enjoyed the book and some things I need to go over more than once to understand but once you do that it becomes easier.

I LOVED this book! How it is written is like Jillian is talking directly to me. It's very conversational. It's an easy read and really hit home to me. She broke things down, kept it simple, but still got into detail. If you've struggled with weight loss, this is a must read!

I watched the Biggest Loser show and was intimidated by Michales but also really admired her fitness and physique. I really liked watching how the contestants shed the pounds. Now I'm on my own weight loss program - walking, trying to eat right, etc.. and i picked this up the other day and was really pleased. lots of commonsense advice, scientifically sound and myth busting. i'll be doing a lot of the work in the books (the journaling bits) and hope it helps me in my journey to weightloss.

Excellent book, have already lost 2 pounds following the advise Jillian gives in her book. If you follow her instructions with not too much cheating you will be feeling and looking much better in no time. Really liked that she divided the book in 3 key areas so it is interesting to read different areas at different times. Only one issue with the book it should have more color photos.

I've always admired Jillian's honest, no-nonsense approach to diet and exercise, but I wondered if this would be "just another diet book." It's NOT! It's a knowledgeable, sophisticated book, wrapped in an easily understood package. There's everything you need to know, and then some (it's full of helpful tips). I feel like I finally found a guide I can follow, written by a woman who seems to understand the pain of being overweight from the inside out. THANK YOU, JILLIAN!

my nutritionist agrees that this is an unsafe diet program that might have helped someone lose some weight after pregnancy but would not keep the weight off...the tv show is silly, rather ridiculous...DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY ON THIS, it is a GIMMICKY program.

This is by far the best informational upright health and fitness book I've read so far, and I've read a lot. Jillian is right there talking to you, strait and to the point. No fooling around. Problems and solutions. She explains things so simply. You either do or don't. It's really like she's talking directly to you. So easy and user friendly. She really knows her stuff. First health & nutrition, what works what doesn't. Then exercise and exactly how to do each and every one (with pictures) whether at home or when you get to the gym, so you look like you know what you're doing. I highly recommend this book and Jillian for the novice and for those who have drifted way away (me) and want to get their body back. Thanks Jillian. Wish you were my personal trainer!

This is a very motivational book on how to lose the weight and keep it off! Jillian Michaels is very inspirational in how she approaches the problem of weight loss. Just DO IT is the way to go..Good book!

I have enjoyed watching Jillian Michaels on the biggest loser which led me to pruchase her book. I am a nutritionist and personal trainer myself and really enjoyed reading this book.
It really gives the reader the basic information that someone needs to get results. She is a great motivator.
I highly recommend this book.

I hope to incorporate the philosphy of this book to my own life, the explanations are logical and simple yet revolutionary all at the same time. The book is easy to read and Jillian's approach a sometimes touchy subjects with humor and caring.

Both educational and motivational... this book is excellent. I highly recommend it.

I personally don't think this book is necessary for anyone familiar with basic weight training exercises or who has basic nutritional knowledge. Jillian is inspiring and knows her stuff. This book was too basic for my needs.

One of the Biggest Loser Coaches debuts with her own novel. In this book Jillian gives you the basics about loosing weight and she doesn't lie to you like other authors of dieting books do. She gives you the facts. She tells you how to loose weight without going through extreme measures - such as surgery and dieting pills. I finished this book in two weeks and it was a great read. I learned a lot. One thing I enjoyed about this book is that Jillian teaches you how to read nutrition labels on the back of food packages. She also teaches you how to take the first steps to your life change. Since reading this book and exercising regularly I've lost a total of eleven pounds in six weeks. It Really Works! You must be the one to make the change and you cannot give up if you didn't loose as much weight one week than you did the week before. When you do start this plan keep it in mind all of the time. I created my own weight loss chart from the example in the book and I keep it on my refrigerator. Good luck!!

Jillian Michaels, a personal trainer by trade address reader's weight loss goals on a one on one approach with the author sharing her own weight lose issues followed by actual exercises to tailor the reader's workout and diet to reach their goals. Good information.

I ordered the book and DVD from "The Biggest Loser" and this book because Jillian was one of the trainers. This one had by far the most indepth and sensible ideas. Real down to earth good practices to follow. Definitly the Biggest Winner.

I love this book. Jillian is straight forward and no-nonsense just like on the show. She won't accept excuses. You have to work hard to lose the weight and that's all there is to it. No quick fixes. I have already lost over ten pounds following her advice. Great book. I know I will keep the weight off this time because I've begun to look forward to exercise and miss it when I am unable to exercise. Also, fast food no longer tastes good to me. I prefer to cook my own food and know what's in it.

For everyone who is intimidated by the number of hours contestants on the Biggest Loser work out in a day-fear no more. In Winning By Losing Jillian Michaels shows you how to get incredible results in the real world. Michaels book addresses questions regarding duration of work out, intensity, optimal working out times, and most importantly how to make the time for yourself, for your health. This book is informative, realistic, and best of all its tone makes you feel as though Jillian is right there with you by your side.

Finally!! I have read and tried thousands of different programs and diets out there. When I turned 35 and was at my highest weight ever, weighing more than I did during either one of my pregnancies, I vowed to discontinue my support of the diet industry. I have watched "The Biggest Loser" and was intrigued by Jillian Michaels. But what about not supporting the diet industry? I am completely thrilled I didn't let my previous vow stop me from buying this book!! Ms. Michaels' use of questions to determine the different metabolisms and the formula for basic caloric intake and then recommending an eating and excercise program is exactly what I needed. It's not a one-diet-fits-all book. It's the one diet that fits you or me book. FABULOUS!!!

I really have to rave about this book. It is very motivational. It has really helped me jump start me into dieting. I have boughten several weightloss books and I very rarely read those books from cover to cover.. this is one book I did read cover to cover.. Its worth the reading and the weightloss.

If you are a beginner dieter than you need this book. She helps you to understand how much of everything you need and don't need. She also gives some great exercises inside the book. After you've read the book be sure to buy the dvds.

Jillian offers excellent advice about diet and exercise. There are good photos demonstrating the simple workout moves. This book is useful for people who need a primer to get started and also for more experienced people who need a friendly but firm shove to get going.

Jillian Michaels is the "Dr. Phil" of weight loss. Inspirational but tough when it's necessary. It's a no excuses, kick in the butt look at yourself. I highly recommend to all who have come up with a million reasons not to lose weight. It's like Jillian is with you every step of the way.

I think I must own every exercise and diet-related book out there. I have these huge volumes filled with an exercise to work every possible angle of every muscle 6 different ways... You'd think from reading them I would be a fountain of knowledge, but that's not so. Sometimes you just need to know what exercises work, and how to combine them in an effective program. Jillian provides you with just that. My favorite portion of the book was the 12 week exercise program. I like how it changes every two weeks - a great way to keep surprising your body and avoid a plateau.

The reason why I gave the book four stars instead of five is because I think that you can find better diet information elsewhere. I did a lot of research to find metabolic typing and it seems that it is something that is not backed by a whole lot of science. You really have to rely on anecdote for this one - "if it works for other people, it may work for me!" Still, any diet will work if you're restricting calories, and some people have had a lot of success.

This book is great for people who have tried "everything" to lose weight and don't seem to be able to get to their goal. Jillian gives examples that ordinary people can relate to and tells the reader right from the beginning there are no gimmicks. It is just diet, exercise and having the right attitude, setting goals and meeting them. There are some of the recipes from The Biggest Loser TV show included, and a good explanition as well as pictures of how to do the exercises. I really enjoyed this book.

First off I'm a big fan of Jillian Michaels. I love her on the Biggest Loser, and find her "tough love' style incredibly motivating. This book is just great. It cuts through all of the BS of fad diets, and does a great job of helping you determine exactly how and what you should be eating for great results. She combines science in her method which helps the reader to completely understand his/her body, and what, why, and how someone gains/loses weight. I'm a student pursuing a degree in Dietetics and kinesiology, and this book reinforces what I'm learning throughout my education. I've had a weight problem my whole life, and recently ( 2 years ago) have lost and maintained a loss of 65 pounds. I am battling those last 10 pounds, and I feel that this book will really help me get to my ultimate goal. Whether you have 200 or 20 pounds to lose, this book, with its startling facts and figures, will help you reach your goal!

Follow Jillian's plan and you'll lose weight! Includes a formula to determine how many calories you can eat and still lose weight.

I cannot begin to describe how wonderful this book is! I ordered it 2 months ago and have already dropped 19 pounds. The book is straight-forward with practical advice and tips. I would recommend it to anyone who is ready to make a change!

I have read this book from cover to cover. It is very well written. It has a lot of information and knowledge. The exercise section is very clear and easy to understand. I recommend this book.

This is an excellent, effective and realistic lifestyle plan by Jillian Michaels. Her workouts will make you sweat each and every time, but imagining her there with you right when you want to give up half way through your last set is all it takes to get you through it. They are not for the fate of heart, but you can work up to being able to do them straight through with some extra cardio training when you have the oomph for it. Don't be discouraged if you're worn out right away the first few times through. Take short breaks when you need to, but don't give up!

Her meal plans are, for the most part nutritionally sound. Personally I like a few more fruits throughout my day (especially during summer!), so I add a homemade smoothie with 1-3 servings here and there. If you have knee problems, try adding some flax to your diet, and maybe a glucosamine supplement so you don't use that as an excuse to go easy or end up in pain. A lot of her exercises are multi-joint movements that can stress the knees if you are starting out very overweight (squats, various lunges, etc), so you might want to add either or both in anyway. Most of her recipes are pretty scrumptious, but watch your portion sizes since most are for 4-6 people.

It would be nice if some of the advanced exercises had photos, but most are available on Google or YouTube if you're serious about doing this right. Overall, Jillian has done a great job of putting together a surmountable, invigorating life style that will produce results proportionate to the effort you put into making the change to be healthy, happy, and fit. Go for it!

I just love Jillian Michael's tough love approach to losing weight. Her book made perfect sense so I applied all her techniques. I did gain weight however I have lost inches & I'm eating healthier than I was before. I'll take a toned 10 over a flabby 7 any day.

This book is awesome! Jillian gets right to the point and teaches you all you need to know about the "right way to lose weight". In just one month I was able to drop 12 lbs and I can feel my muscles shaping. Would recomend to anyone!

I could not find too many carbs.... but if you can deal without some carbs, go for it.

This book was very helpful in explaining why you lose and gain weight. I would recommend it because it was easy to read and understand.

I liked the book Winning by Losing because it was very straight forward and down to earth. Ms.Michaels tells it like it is and assists the reader in their journey towards weight loss.

I expected it to be more lke Jillian is
on the biggest loser. I was a little
disappointed/

The book was very informative and made alot of sense......you just have to take the time to take the 'tests' in the book and figure out what foods work best for your body type. I liked the food groups as the eating plan was fairly broad and not restrictive to a point that you feel unsatisfied.

I have read a couple of other health books (Bob Greene) and I really enjoyed Jillian's book the best. She doesn't "fluff" what needs to be done and gives real life experiences either she had or had at the Biggest Looser.

Excellent info. easy reading and easy to follow. I am finally on the right track!

This book kick major butt. So if don't want to be kicked into gear, than don't get this book. Very hard.

i love this book! i related to a lot of what she had to talk about. she tells you about the best and worsts carbs, fats, and proteins, and teaches you about your bodys chemical make up (whether you are a slow or fast oxidizer, and what foods to eat and avoid for each). ive read a lot of books relating to weight loss and this is definatly one of the best. its not confusing and she doesnt give you scientific terms that you dont understand. she breaks it down for you and is constantly motivating you that you can do it! the exercise index in the back is great and she also gives some recipies. sometimes while i was reading i felt like i could have written the book (not in a bad way, but how much i knew what she was talking about). she askes you questions about your eating behaviors and how you feel, are you depressed and anxious, which we all know relates to our weight, and self esteem, and confidence. one i started reading i couldn't put the book down. it made me want to get up and go to the gym and try the new exercises shown in the back of the book. i definatly 100% recommend this book. its totally worth it. if you're really focused and really want to accomplish your goals, and you read this book for a little extra motivation, you'll definatly see results, not only in the mirror but definatly in your mind. =]

I thought the book was great..very informative from your food intake to what excersizes to do..I loved it. I would definately recommend it.

Jillian tells it like it is. She doesn't promise you anything and is very straight forward about her program. I enjoyed reading this book and I am about to start the program. It also gives a few recipes as well.

Very informative. This is the first book I have found that helps me to understand how my body works, how to eat and how to exercise. Her tips and her 12 week challenge is making me a much stronger person. Jilian Michaels is very knowledgeable. She taps into the mental and physical aspects of loosing weight and being an overall healthier person living a healthier lifestyle. No cheating, no diets, and no easy ways out. She is living proof herself and shares it in her book. I cant stress enought, this is a MUST read for ANYONE trying to loose weight and wanting to be a winner!!!!!!!!!!

My sister likes it! She reads it alot so it must be good.

I have found the book very helpfull but with regard to the recipes I have had some trouble finding simular ingredients in Australia, apart from that the book is excellent.

Her book is wonderful. It has a lot of helpful information. Some things I would have never guessed. She's been through a lot and she is helping me! I've alread lost 11 pounds since January. Listen to her...she knows her stuff!

Overview: the self (behavior, pysch) stuff is excellent, the workout stuff is beyond excellent, the diet stuff is meh.

Jillian's workouts are brutal and effective. They just are. And, really, the only effective workouts are brutal, so suck it up: you want to get lean, right? Rather than prescribing the usual "3 days cardio, 2 days strength" stuff, she has you doing four days of circuit, one day of cardio (keeping your heart rate at 85% of max for 50 minutes!) "to rest your muscles,"(ha) and two days of nuthin. The circuit, for those of you who aren't familiar, is what you see those poor Biggest Loser contestants doing on TV when they're redfaced and sweating heavily: it's a way of getting your heart rate WAY up there by doing, for example, 15 pushups then 15 squats then 15 pushups then 15 squats then 15 pushups then 15 squats NEXT CIRCUIT QUIT WHINING 15 tricep dips 15 crunches etc etc. A circuit is typically made up of an upper body exercise and a lower body one: J says doing this causes your heart rate to shoot up because you're pushing the blood to the upper body, then the lower, over and over again. You do each circuit 3 times without resting, then move to the next one.

So it's brutal, like I said. But it makes you strong and lean. And it makes you feel like you can do anything.

The "self" section is also effective. Figuring out why we do what we do (mindlessly snack, overeat) is an important tool in changing our behavior. So is the positive thinking stuff, something that doesn't come naturally to this reviewer.

Why the four stars? After all the explanation of how many calories you should be taking in daily and what your metabolic "type" is, there is very little guidance on how to put a meal together. Okay, I should be eating 40% carbs, 30% fat and 30% protein. Now how do I do that? Do I eat a bunch of veggies and an egg or two? You can always refer to "the Zone" books for advice on this if you're a balanced oxidizer because that's the dietary model followed (40/30/30). But apart from a few recipes (many using fake stuff like Splenda, sweetened whey powder, etc.), you're on your own.

This item arrived promptly as promised - the book was new as described. I have never had a problem purchasing from Amazon or it's contibutors. Great book - my daughter loves it!

This is one of the best fitness books I have ever read. Jillian Michaels explains everything in simplified manor. I've been reading this book and following her plan and I have never felt better. I lost 12lbs in one month. I highly recommend this book.

I only used this book for the exercise portion, so I can't comment on the diet portion. But this book is well worth the price for the workouts alone! Once I really followed the workouts schedule as prescribed, I dropped a size in about 6 weeks after a really long plateau.

I disagree with the posters who complain this is too basic, or there is nothing new to learn. The exercises may not be complicated, but that does not mean they are not effective. I had spent over 2 years with a trainer doing weight workouts, but this workout on my own helped me drop another size after I stopped working out with him.

The magic is in the way she composes the workouts. The workouts are amazingly effective if followed the way she lays them out. The combination of lifting with short bursts of cardio really firms up your muscles while burning fat. This type of workout produces more of a leaner/sculpted look, it's not intended for building mass or bulk.

If you're serious about losing weight this is the book for you. This book will get you where you want to be if you're serious about it. This is not a quick fix fad diet. Jillian really knows her stuff. I had lost 54 pounds on my own, but the weight stopped coming off and I still had a lot to lose. And I wasn't exercising either, so I wasn't in shape. After doing what she says the weight continued to come off. And the exercises have toned up my muscles and even made them stronger. Lose weight look great and feel great with Jillians book. A must read.

An excellent how-to book, in plain language, that will help anyone in their struggles to lose weight. Jillian Michaels doesn't talk down to you and she doesn't let you talk down to yourself - she just shows you how to make changes that will change your life. I highly recommend this book because it addresses all 3 components to losing weight - diet, exercise and attitude. Everyone will find something helpful in this book!

Everyone knows to eat right and to exercise but it's very hard to follow it everyday when its so easy to see fatty foods everywhere. Thanks to Jillian I know the important things like difference between saturated and transfats and that it is important to give your self a rest day instead of pushing yourself too hard. Thank you Jillian!

I really enjoyed the information in this book. Her work out routine is nice because she mixed things up.

I really liked this book! The focusing on your selfesteem issues first is probably one of the best ideas ever when it comes to loosing weight.

Lots of great exercises and recipes. Helps you understand the science behind trying to lose weight.

This book is great! It was very hard to put down one I started reading it. I learned so much from this book and am so glad I invested in buying this book.

She gets down to the nitty gritty.... and makes it the most simple diet and workout program- she gets back to basics and simple math of losing weight, and motivates you like crazy! Buy it and change your life!

Great book, easy to read and understand and doesn't bore you to tears. Great advice that anyone can follow! I recommend this book to everyone!

This book has completely changed my outlook on life and it made me realize that yo-yo dieting just doesn't work. If you have the dedication and just need to know how to accomplish your weight loss goals, I would highly reccommend this book

This is a great book to read. Jillian really tells it like it is. You either get it or you dont. That simple.
I highly recommend this book.

This book had a lot of helpful information and great pictures to describe the exercises.

The book was very imformative. And easy to follow. It has been very beneficial for me to use this book.

I really like this book. Jillian helps you alot with how to properly lose weight. Try her exercise videos as well.

I was on the show, The Biggest Loser, and had the GREAT opportunity to meet and work with Jillian Michaels. She opened doors for me that had been shut forever. She helped me to lose weight, do it on my own, and FINALLY gain the strength and confidence I needed. I owe my LIFE to this wonderful woman, Jillian. Her book is EXACTLY everything she taught us on the show. I literally read it in one day, and it made me miss her and the ranch so much! This book will CHANGE your life, but you have to WANT it! You can do it! Thanks, Jillian for this AWESOME book, I feel as though you are with me again. I love you:)
Lisa