'The Biggest Loser' trainer Steve Cook says it is extremely rewarding to 'help people take back their lives'
Steve Cook has major wins under his belt in men’s fitness modeling and bodybuilding competitions, but it’s truly his affable and aspirational personality that keeps fans engaged all over the world, according to his bio on USA Network's 'The Biggest Loser'.
Steve's fitness, nutrition and lifestyle has served as an inspiration for his fans all over the world. Apart from being one of the new trainers on the show, he is also the creator of his own online program called Fitness Culture and is a social media wellness influencer.
In an exclusive interview with MEA WorldWide (MEAWW), 'The Biggest Loser' trainer talks about what fitness means to him and dishes on his experience on the show.
How did you get into fitness and training?
I grew up playing basketball, baseball and football with a very active family. I fell in love with weightlifting at an early age (benching 225 lbs in sixth grade) and after I finished playing college football, I needed something to fulfill that competitive spirit inside.
After helping my dad lose more than 80 lbs, I found my purpose. That's how I began training others and really growing my fitness presence on social media. It has been extremely rewarding to help people take back their lives.
Along with weight loss and fitness, there is an emphasis on overall health and wellness this season. Any reason for this shift?
The fitness world is entirely different from what it was before. It’s not just about the number on the scale anymore. Our new 360-degree approach to wellness reflects the shift that society took since the show originally began.
We are excited to give our contestants the best experience possible that prioritizes mental health, proper nutrition and aftercare in addition to us going all out in the gym.
How was your experience on the show?
As someone who has struggled with unhealthy eating habits in my past, I think this show provides an unbelievable opportunity for those struggling to get the top information from the best professionals in the field.
They have this chance on the distraction-free campus to take a personalized look at their health and tackle medical issues that have plagued them for years, mental demons and really take back the reigns to their life back once and for all.
What was it like working with Bob Harper and Erica Lugo?
Working with Erica is great. We were on set for 10 hours every single day and early on we realized we really were responsible for these people and their journeys. Their first line of defense.
We put the competition on the back burner for the most part and really turned the attention to collaborate on the wellbeing of the contestants. We’ve really bonded.
Bob is, of course, a legend. He is an inspiration to so many including myself.
What was your most memorable moment on the show?
No specific moment. The experience, in general, has really grounded me in a lasting way. It has been one of the coolest things I've ever witnessed and given me a real purpose.
Any message for the readers about health and fitness?
Remember that fitness isn't just about the gym. It's not about looks, either. You have to take a step back and reevaluate your mental and emotional wellness to be 100 percent healthy. I always say, 'It's not just what you’re eating, but what’s eating you'. This took me a long time to learn.
Catch all the new episodes of the reboot version of 'The Biggest Loser' every Tuesday at 9/8 c on USA Network.