With new shows coming to the NBC network, “The Biggest Loser” continues its long TV run. On Jan. 6 the show returned with an added twist for the season. In this season, called “The Biggest Loser: Challenge America,” three contestants will be obese teenagers, ages 13-17. Although they are not subject to elimination, they still compete in the same challenges and face emotional and physical struggles like adults on the show.

“What I enjoy the most about this season is the fact that they have incorporated children into the program and their families,” junior Peyton Mogley said. “It really gives me a sense that nothing is impossible unless you do nothing; anything can happen if you are willing to work hard enough for it and believe. “

Along with the three teens in the competition, trainer Jillian Michaels returns after a leave of absence. She left after the 11th season to try and start her own show and raise her own kids. However, Michaels decided to come back when her own show was canceled as well as when “The Biggest Loser” viewership took a dip.

“I have been anxiously awaiting Jillian’s re-arrival ever since she left during 2011’s season,” Mogley said. “She is my idol and I admire Jillian with the highest respect.”

The premise of “The Biggest Loser” is that the contestants go to a ranch where they go through a series of challenges and workouts. As well as challenges, they are tempted with various foods that they are supposed to stay away from. The contestants start out obese and out of shape, but their ultimate goal is to slim down to their desired weight. Whoever loses the highest percentage of weight by the end of their time on the ranch wins a $250,000 cash prize.

Junior Peyton Page has watched “The Biggest Loser” for as long as he can remember.

“I haven’t watched this season that much because it’s the same every season,” Page said.

Although the shows might get repetitive, the show has drawn in the viewers for its first four shows, averaging 6 to 7 million viewers each show while staying as a top three show in its time slot.
At press time, all but one contestant has lost at least 10 percent of his or her body weight. The largest contestant, Michael, who started out at 444 pounds, had lost the most weight: 60 pounds through four weeks.

“The challenges are good, and it’s fun to see the contestants work hard,” Page said.

“The Biggest Loser” airs on NBC at 7 p.m. on Mondays.