Winning by Losing: Drop the Weight, Change Your Life Reviews

• Jillian Tells It Like It Is

  
  By A1QC3R32OMFQ0I on 2005-10-29
  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.
  
  
  

• LOVE THIS BOOK

  
  By A1G592HFDKQ9H7 on 2005-10-27
  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......
  
  

• Very Good Beginner Book

  
  By A2DQ2U5BYIXNUJ on 2005-11-25
  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.
  
  

• A MUST BUY!

  
  By A1R92PJYWXAKGI on 2006-06-11
  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!!!!!!!
  
  

• A great companion to The Biggest Loser book and show- written by one of the fitness coaches for the show

  
  By A1ER5AYS3FQ9O3 on 2006-03-07
  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.
  
  
  
  
• Jillian Michaels Turning Losers Into Winners
  By A1J6B00Z1D6PS4 on 2005-11-06
  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!
  
  
• Surprisingly helpful--very well done!!
  By A3JCWGHCVC2ZNF on 2005-12-04
  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.
  
  
• Jillian's results speak for themselves!
  By A3OQF3M3EHA637 on 2005-09-11
  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!
  
  
• Forever changed
  By A1NQE7DGQWVEV2 on 2005-10-17
  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.
  
  
• Amazing book! I'm so impressed!
  By A6CXQVLTRJFF4 on 2006-01-31
  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!
  
  
• Simple, pragmatic, without the bull
  By AA5O6E1G0I8EH on 2006-10-09
  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!
  
  
• Finally, a book to motivate AND educate!
  By A3QJE97JRV7VAD on 2006-03-25
  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.
  
  
• Good book with no B.S.
  By A34PBT5SFUP8RD on 2006-11-03
  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.
  
  
• Important read
  By A1ALTB5A56Q76C on 2005-10-10
  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.
  
  
• The Real Deal
  By A3O448IQ2NTHU2 on 2005-09-08
  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.
  
  
• Motivating
  By A2XD5BT8DQHKJ8 on 2005-09-13
  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.
  
  
• Informational
  By A2CKX1LC1JEE6J on 2005-09-13
  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!
  
  
• Revolutionary
  By ALFTJP9Z37VFS on 2005-10-02
  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
  
  
• great book
  By AKSQDETSR4NL on 2005-10-03
  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.
  
  
• inspirational
  By A1OEUTUXIXLUZS on 2005-10-24
  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.
  
  
• Groundbreaking
  By AVVGXH5XW7MJK on 2005-09-07
  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.
  
  
  
  
• Motivational
  By A1CMJ32LZVAVHN on 2005-09-12
  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.
  
  
• Amazing Book
  By A8SCV8V5NAMPT on 2005-10-10
  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.
  
  
• INFORMATIVE AND ENLIGHTENING
  By A1XBIIO0IBZFBR on 2006-03-23
  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!
  
  
• Rhonda
  By A2KZE6ALFUOKSS on 2005-09-08
  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.
  
  
  
• Thank you
  By AI2LBVA90NSX7 on 2006-03-25
  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!
  
  
• Clears up all the diet confusion
  By APKZ4PMMX23MN on 2005-09-13
  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.
  
  
• The Truth Shall Set You Free
  By ALF8OAGLSGMRI on 2005-10-02
  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.
  
  
• Not like ANY other!
  By AXVRO25QZDQB3 on 2005-11-21
  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!
  
  
• She's the best
  By AOGUS6N3KP2O5 on 2006-07-14
  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.
  
  

• Making the Cut: The 30-Day Diet and Fitness Plan for the Strongest, Sexiest You
• Jillian Michaels - 30 Day Shred
• The Biggest Winner - How to Win by Losing: The Complete Body Workout (5-Disc DVD Set: Shape Up - Front, Shape Up - Back, Cardio Kickbox, Maximize - Full Frontal, Maximize - Back in Action)
• The Biggest Loser Cookbook: More Than 125 Healthy, Delicious Recipes Adapted from NBC's Hit Show
• Jillian Michaels for Beginners - Frontside / Backside