Biggest Loser Finalist Stresses Everyday Changes

Members of the Tri-County Chamber of Commerce gathered at  earlier this month for a presentation regarding weight loss and health. 

The meeting was presented by the Tri-County’s “Health and Wellness Committee.” Amanda Arlauskas, a resident of , and a finalist on NBC’s “The Biggest Loser” in 2009, was the featured speaker of the event. 

Since the show aired, Arlauskas has traveled the country, speaking at various public schools, universities, and community events.

After a healthy breakfast of fruits and muffins, the crowd was treated to an uplifting story of hope, determination, and triumph. Having grown up as a “big girl,” Arlauskas spoke of the heartbreak of missing her prom, of not having a boyfriend and not leading a normal teenage life. After two attempts to get onto the Biggest Loser, she was given her chance in 2009. 

In a nationwide vote Arlauskas was voted on to the show to become “America’s Choice” for season eight. She survived the season, the longest one to date, and went on take third place.  In the process, Arlauskas lost 87 pounds, ran a full marathon, and matured into a strong, self confident young woman who will no longer accept self imposed limitations. 

The presentation featured video clips from the Biggest Loser and behind-the-scenes stories that kept every attendee glued to their seats.

A spirited Q&A followed, and Arlauskas rose to the challenge of answering tough questions regarding diet, exercise, inner-strength, self confidence and the ability to simply make better choices. She described the “wall wash,” a Biggest Loser technique for washing your hair when your arms are so tired you can’t lift them.

She spoke of the mental tenacity needed to run a 26-mile marathon when just months prior she could not run a mile. She spoke candidly and eloquently about her journey and that of her show mates. She also stressed the need for people of all ages to reverse their sedentary ways and make a change, one small step at a time.