When opportunity knocks, I answer. I got a invitation to check out the new Biggest Loser Resort inside the iconic JW Marriott Desert Springs. I’ve always wanted to stay at the JW Marriott because the 11 year old little girl in me knows that’s where they filmed a classic episode of Saved By The Bell and I’ve always been very curious about the Biggest Loser Brand. Curious to learn if the brand was more than just one of the most popular tv shows ever. Curious to see what the nutritional philosophy was. Curious to see what happens to all the former contestants. And mostly curious to see if this program really works. So here is what I experienced over the weekend.
Of course I need a road trip partner in crime so I enlisted Tania, one of my best friends and favorite people. After 5 hours of sitting in Friday traffic from LA to Palm Desert, we finally made it to driveway of the JW Marriott. First impression: woah. this place is huuuuge!!
And beautiful! And is that a swan I see in the indoor/outdoor lagoon?? We checked in and made our way past the gondola rides and lounge to find our room. A lovely room in fact! Very spacious with a large bathroom and a porch overlooking the mini golf course (where Zach teaches Kelly how to putt!) Minutes later there was a knock on the door and two very nice gentlemen set up a whole spread of veggies, fruit, desserts, water, and a gift back from BLR. So kind!
This part of the note that they sent over really resinated with me.
In the morning, breakfast was a beautiful spread of mostly fruit, which you know I went crazy for!
The resort had made note of my vegan diet and had the chef prepare delicious meals for me all week! Check out this gorgeous salad:
First event of the day was a meet and great with the people running the resort, the reps from the JW Marriott and Cheryl Forberg the shows chef and nutritionist. She did a cooking demo of one of the dishes from her new book A Small Guide to Losing Big It was super tasty and we got to have a nice chat about food philosophy and how she works with contestants on the show.
I was most interested and concerned about the contestants that are sent home. What happens to them when they don’t have the everyday nutritionist, chef and staff to help them. Unfortunately, a lot go back to eating the way they were, but there are a lot who stick with the program and are continually inspiring the people around them. Chef Cheryl give every contestant (there’s been over 300 now) her personal cell phone so that they can always reach out for help and guidance. How cool is that?? She said that Dr. G does the same thing.
There were workouts, there were shoe fittings, there were nutrition talks, there was delicious food, there was so much to do!
A day at the resort is a full day! From 7am to 6pm you are in their program. It sounds intense, but that’s what is really needed to jumpstart your life change (I never call these things a diet. Diet is something that is only temporary).
I had so much fun at the resort I wished my stay were longer! I met so many wonderful people and had such a great experience. If you are in need of a jumpstart for your mind and body, check out The Biggest Loser Resort in the JW Marriott. You’ll have an experience like no other!
