The second cool thing this week was that the contestants traveled to Washington, D.C. for the week.

The challenges were Capital inspired. The contestants had a pop challenge trying to get as many people to do a public workout as possible. Liz won a mystery prize (always fun) to be used in the later challenge.

This week’s challenge was a series of mini challenges. Now, I have to admit that I lost a little love for Biggest Loser when Miley Cyrus was being played as the background music, but whatever, it’s not my show to run. In the end, Rebecca won immunity.

Bob, Jillian, and the gang all headed to the White House for a very special tour. They picked vegetables from the First Family’s garden and made a salad in the White House kitchen (try the White House Salad recipe). I was jealous, I didn’t get a trip, not fair.

Jillian gets the quote of the week expressing her hatred for Tracey, while Tracey gets oblivious of the week for thinking Jillian likes her.

Bob was happy to have Amanda back under his wing, and it showed on the scale that Amanda was glad to be there. Which is a perfect transition into the lovely 50-minute weigh in….

The contestants are weighing in for the first time alone. The most notable weight losses were Danny, with a double digit, Amanda with her highest weight loss ever, and Tracey and Liz with merely three pounds lost, putting them below the yellow line.

In the end Tracey was sent home (shocker to all of you I’m sure), but personally I liked her. She is doing fantastic at home and is a big competitor for the at-home winner.

I know next week is a huge episode, so hold on to your hats folks! Until next week BLers-or if you run into me at school- best in health.
-Mike Morelli

Post from: Diets in Review Blog

Mike Morelli’s Biggest Loser Recap – Episode 8.8

The second annual list of America’s fittest cities published by the WellPoint Foundation has been released, and Washington, D.C. has landed itself in the top spot. It made its way up from fourth place in 2008.

The WellPoint Foundation collected data from the 50 largest metropolitan areas in the United States. There is only one other year to compare the statistics, but what the second year allows the researchers is to evaluate the progress or regression of the areas examined.

There was a pretty big rejigging of the rankings from last year. Minneapolis wasn’t even on the list last year, and it’s number two this year (see below). Atlanta, Philadelphia, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, New York City, Miami/Fort Lauderdale, Phoenix, and Indianapolis were all on the list last year, but not this year.

The purpose of the rankings wasn’t merely to show who is healthiest in the country. The study authors wanted to see where metro areas may have improved or faltered in improving public health. Improving the public health isn’t just about making people live longer and happier lives, but reducing health costs for individuals and the society as a whole.

America’s Fittest Cities:

1. Washington, D.C.
2. Minneapolis, Minnesota
3. Denver, Colorado
4. Boston, Massachusetts
5. San Francisco, California
6. Seattle, Washington
7. Portland, Oregon
8. San Diego, California
9. Austin, Texas
10. Virginia Beach, Virginia

(via: HealthNews.com)

Post from: Diets in Review Blog

Top 10 Fittest Cities in the U.S.

Photo by Flickr user French Toast

The capital of the United States, Washington D.C., is known for its history and humid subtropical weather. It definitely has four distinct seasons, thus making it a great location for running. Although D.C. is mostly flat, it offers several great places to run, walk, or bike. Below are the best and safest places to run in the Washington D.C. area.

Best Places to Run in Washington D.C.

1. Rock Creek Park: Extends about 12 miles from the Potomac River to the border of Maryland. This urban park offers over 25 miles of trails and is a great place to enjoy the day. Either jog it or take the family out for a picnic. Safety is not an issue due to the fact that a park ranger is on staff.
2. Sligo Creek Trail: One of the oldest trails in the county. It is a 10 mile hard surface trail that starts near Prince George’s county border and continues through Montgomery County. Again, a safe place to take a stroll or spend time with the family.
3. Valley Trail: Also known as Beach Trail, extends for approximately five miles of hills and beautiful scenery. Located in northwest Washington, Valley Trail is home to a few annual races. Enjoy the scenery and get a great workout at the same time. Nothing Better!!
4. National Mall: This path stretches 1.9 miles from the Lincoln Memorial to Capitol Hill. Along this tree-lined path you’ll pass the reflection pond, WWII Memorial, Washington Monument and many other important monuments. You’ll also catch glimpses of the White House, and likely a few of our nation’s leaders.

See Matt’s entire tour of the Best Places to Run.

Post from: Diets in Review Blog

Best Places to Run in Washington D.C.