IF you’re already struggling with your New Year’s Resolution to lose weight, then Fit Factor 2013 is here to help.
The Journal and Real Radio’s competition will give six local people an intensive health and fitness programme worth £2,000, plus the chance to win a holiday at a five-star resort in Malta that’s a favourite with celebrities.
This year’s competition has a twist as we’re looking for entries from pairs such as couples, family relations or friends, as well as individuals.
Last year the group, dubbed the Active8, lost more than 30 stones between them in 12 weeks, and have continued to shed the pounds.
Our biggest loser, Port of Tyne director Ian Gibson, lost an amazing 10-and-a-half stones in 10 months. Now it can be your turn to follow in their footsteps.
Fit Factor trainer David Fairlamb said: “If you are overweight, unfit, lack confidence and self-esteem, have tried every diet, lack energy, are stuck in a rut and have no self-discipline with food and exercise – why not apply to Fit Factor 2013 and you could change your life forever?
We’re looking for people who may have a goal in mind such as losing weight for a wedding or physical challenge, or a particular reason to lose weight such as a health issue or starting a family.
The programme involves a ‘lean and clean’ healthy eating programme and four training sessions per week in Tyneside, including two gym sessions, beach bootcamp and activities such as power yoga, paddle boarding, rugby, football, volleyball, badminton and Zumba.
Mentors include Olympic swimmer Chris Cook and ‘Run Geordie Run’ charity champion Mark Allison. There will also be a chance to explore personal weight issues with psychologist Karen Davies-Hough.
Participants will be featured in The Journal each week and interviewed on Real Radio Breakfast with Gary & Lisa, so must be willing to disclose their vital statistics.
Last year’s finalists included Nick Cotterill, 41, piled on the weight after a rugby injury, but managed to regain his fitness.
“To the new crop I would say – don’t have a second thought about getting involved – the friendships you develop with people all going through the same experience are priceless.”
Whoever makes the most progress – not just in terms of weight loss but also motivation and commitment – will win a week for two at the five-star Fortina Spa Resort in Malta flying from Newcastle. The exclusive resort – whose previous guests include Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, Madonna, Tom Cruise and Tom Hanks – is launching a partnership with Sunderland AFC.
The winner of Fit Factor 2013 will fly from Newcastle to the resort in Sliema for a week of blissful relaxation.
The winner will receive seven nights’ accommodation for two people sharing a five-star bedroom on a half-board basis plus two thalasso pool treatments, one session in Spa Sante and a Valletta harbour cruise.
All six will get free VIP entry (plus a guest pass) to the Great North Swim on June 14-16, the Bupa Great North 10k in July and Bupa Great North Run on September 15. Visit www.fortinasparesort.com.
HOW TO ENTER
:: CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FIT FACTOR 2013 ::
Read an interview with psychologist Karen Davies-Hough in The Journal’s Great North Fitness Revolution section next Thursday.
