Weight Loss Reality Show Calls for Entries

Rebecca Ejifoma

Nigeria’s first weight loss reality TV show, the faSttest shedder, has called for entries into its season four, as audition is set to hold on July 25 this year in Lagos State.

The 90 day contest, which will close registration on Friday July 23 at 5pm, aims to create a unique social-oriented platform where overweight and obese persons can go through a holistic diet and exercise programme, get acquainted with tips on fitness, healthy living, share their weight loss stories, and get support and encouragement from experts.

The show creator, Seyi Olusore, told THISDAY in an interview that the show would enlighten individuals on the benefits of incorporating fitness and healthy eating habits in their daily lives. It will also give special attention to those who want to shed more kilos the right and safe way.

On how it works, he said interested participants could visit thefaSttestshedder website, click on the register button and get started. “Click on the join contest and fill the registration form with your details at N5,000 non-refundable payment.”

For Olusore, popularly known as Shedams, a confirmation mail with the audition date, venue and other details would be sent to participants. “Kindly check the SPAM folder if you don’t receive the inbox,” he suggested.

Now participants, the fitness coach added, would be kept in a boot camp under assisted and supervised conditions which includes daily physical exercise, healthy eating habits, nutrition coaching, mental tasks, and entertaining activities.

Shortlisted parties would move on to the next stage, the medicals. According to Shedams, those who pass will proceed to the final screening through vote.

“Selected participants with the highest votes will be referred to as Shedders of Nigeria’s first weight loss reality TV show – the faSttest shedder.

“Each contestant starts with a weigh-in to determine his or her initial status which will serve as the baseline for determining the overall results. The faSttest shedder is determined by the shedder who has the highest percentage weight loss relative to his or her initial weight,” he emphasised.

Various plots and twists based on shedders with lowest per cent weight loss are also introduced in the course of the game while they are housed in a secret location for 90 days. “All their activities will be documented and broadcasted on TV,” says Shedams.

The Shedders go through various workout sessions from certified fitness trainers like Uche, Nkem, LakeCole, Gfitness and Shedams.

They are also enlightened, re-orientated on meal plans and healthier food options as this is enforced all through their entire stay in the show. Other side attractions are: Themed Team Tasks, Creative Skills, Branded Competitions, Food Temptations, Masterclass Coaching, Celebrity Visits, Psychological Therapy Sessions, and Spa Treats among others.

As the usual practice, each season kicks off with national auditions, where registered participants undergo mandatory vital medical screenings, share their weight stories, experiences and expectations with the judges.

The panel of judges include Lepacious Bose, Lolo (Adaku of Jenifa’s Diary), Madey, Askdamz, Kathleen, Joel, and Shedams.

In the first three seasons, Deborah Ogundiran, Ada Onwubuya, and Yetunde Bajomo emerged as the first three winners of each show.

This year’s contest, which runs from September November this year, promises to help participants shed a few extra pounds in a safer and healthier way.