In less than two weeks, nearly 50 former Biggest Loser contestants will head to San Francisco to put the skills they learned to the test at the San Francisco Triathlon at Treasure Island. SheKnows.com had a chance to chat with two of the competing Biggest Loser contestants – Heba Salama, Biggest Loser Season 6, and SunShine Hampton, Biggest Loser Season 9 – about life after the ranch and their participation in this upcoming reunion.
Life after the biggest loser
SheKnows.com: People fell in love with each of you during your time on the show. What has life been like since you left the ranch?
Heba Salama: Well, first of all, thank you! It was a crazy process, and has been an even wilder ride since we left the ranch. Ed Brantley, my husband (fellow Season 6 Biggest Loser contestant) and I have been racing a lot, and doing a lot of charity work with childhood obesity and public schools. We’ve enjoyed it so much. We also have a cookbook coming out and do a bit of blogging on our website www.EdAndHeba.com.
SunShine Hampton: Ever since [the show] I have been falling in love with [fans of the show], too. I was always scared to talk to people before, and now that I have newfound confidence, I love getting out there and sharing my story and giving back. I was given such a wonderful chance to change my life and the one way I can pay it back is to pass on what I’ve learned.
SheKnows.com: How has your exercise and health routines changed since the show ended?
Heba Salama: We have dedicated our workouts this year almost entirely to race training. We found the gym got a bit boring so we changed it up with race training and an amazing new workout called Tigers Eye – it’s a combination of hot yoga and a circuit workout at Arrichion here in Raleigh. Between that and race training, it’s been a great and fun year so far.
SunShine Hampton: Since the show ended I have slowed things a bit. I only do two 90-minute workouts a day, an easy going workout in the morning and a good cardio workout at night. Twice a week I work with a trainer for my night workout.
SheKnows.com: A big part of staying healthy is carving out “me time.” What do you do to take care of yourself and to make sure you’re taking care of you?
Heba Salama: You know, in all honesty, I’m not doing so great in that arena. I have plans to totally change this summer. We have a lot going on with the book and are busy traveling, so once we get back into a routine, I will be better about it. That being said, when I do have the time, I love to read magazines about health and fitness, because I always find the best tips in the margins! I also love a good pedicure and spending time with my girlfriend’s kids, since we don’t have any yet.
SunShine Hampton: I have learned to take things slow and to not always be so rushed. I set my alarm for 30 minutes earlier than I need to and so, for my ”me time,” I get up and make a cup of coffee and read a book outside.
SheKnows.com: What did you learn from the Biggest Loser experience?
Heba Salama: Wow, that’s a loaded question. I learned that I have an amazing husband, who was willing to go on this ride with me. I learned to love myself and to take care of my body and that I will never treat it the way I was treating it before the show. I have changed everything about my life and will never go back. I also know how lucky I am to have the family and friends that I do, including the new ones I gained from the Biggest Loser.
SunShine Hampton: I learned to enjoy the little moments that make you feel good because you might not see it at the time, but the little victories will carry you through the tough times. The little victories are the steps to get you to the big goal.
SheKnows.com: You’re running a triathlon in two weeks. What does taking part in the event mean to you?
Heba Salama: Well, we were part of the original Biggest Loser group from last year at the San Francisco Triathlon at Treasure Island and loved it! That’s how we caught the “racing bug” and it has changed our lives! The San Francisco Triathlon is not only a great accomplishment, but to be surrounded by all of these people who support us and encourage us and have been through the same thing, it means the world to us.
SunShine Hampton: I cannot believe I’m doing the San Francisco Triathlon. I have come so far and I amaze myself every day. When I look in the mirror and see myself, I see a woman who is strong and determined. And I like it!
SheKnows.com: Any final words of advice for our readers?
Heba Salama: Make small changes today and they will add up to success later. As I always love to say, “dream big,” because anything is possible. And if anyone wants to join us at the San Francisco Triathlon at Treasure Island, please do – we would love to see you at the starting line.
SunShine Hampton: Take small steps to climb your big mountain. Remember the feeling of how good you felt when you finished working out or eating a healthy meal. Carry that feeling with you always. Even when you fall. Love you guys!
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