Bill is The Biggest Loser
Name:Bill Germanakos
Age:41
Starting Weight: 334 lbs
Eliminated Weight: 204 lbs
Hometown: Lynbrook, NY Status: Married
Occupation before leaving for the show: Financial Services/Medical Sales
1.) What was your big turning point -- either during the show or before that made you realize you needed to lose weight? Being that my twin brother Jim and I were getting so large of late, we both knew that we had to do something about it, but not until a couple of my close friends died or became very ill did I decide to really decide to get started and see the doctor. I had just turned 40 and didn't really feel very well, so I made the appointment. A major turning point for me was when the doctor decided that I needed to be put on blood pressure medication for BP that was so high, I couldn't even believe it.
2.) What is one thing you wish you had known before going on The Biggest Loser? Honestly, I wish I had known more about the right way to diet and exercise. As someone who had spent much time on fad diets AND much time in the gym, I realize now that I really didn't know very much at all. If I had, in fact, been more well-educated on these topics, I feel that I might not ever have let myself get to such an unhealthy state in the first place.
3.) If you could have done one thing differently during the show what would it be? I would have not been so trusting of others and would have "played the game" a bit more. That way, I wouldn't have felt "hoodwinked" when the gameplay and deceit became so evident. Throughout most of the taping of the show, I worried more about working out and dieting than I did about alliances and strategy, and that almost spelled the end of me. Unfortunately, it got my brother Jim eliminated.
4.) What do you think your biggest weight-loss obstacles will be now that you're dieting on your own? Now that I'm continuing this game at home, I feel the most difficult obstacle to overcome will be trying to figure out how to incorporate all of the necessary workouts into an extremely busy family life and work schedule. I'm sure that life will get in the way a bit, but I'm up for the challenge. Considering all of the time I used to waste watching television, I feel confident that I will be able to squeeze a couple of hours per day of exercise into my routine.
5.) What advice can you give other people who are hoping to lose extra pounds? My advice is that you have to be both more active, and keep a food journal. As far as daily activity goes, that could mean getting to the gym six days per week, walking in the neighborhood every day, or even just taking the stairs at work instead of the elevator. What everyone must learn is that the ability to lose weight relies on you being able to burn more calories than you consume. Period.
6. ) Who do you think will make it to the end of the show and why? I feel that the contestants that will emerge victorious at the finale will be the Germanakos twins from New York. My prediction is that Jim will win the "At-home" portion of the show, and his brother Bill will be the next BIGGEST LOSER.
7.) What is one thing that happened behind-the-scenes that no one would know from watching the show? What nobody would know just by watching the show on television is just how much Jillian Michaels cared for the contestants on her team as a big sister would even though on screen she always seems like such a tyrant and such a bully. Behind the scenes, my trainer earned the respect and the love of the entire Black Team, by her caring, generosity and overall sincere interest in us as people, as opposed to merely reality show contestants that she had been paid to train. I am very thankful to have been on Jillian's team.
The next season of The Biggest Loser starts January 1st. Go to the
Official Biggest Loser Site >>
iVillage, NBC.com and The Biggest Loser have joined forces to bring you "The More You ‘No’", a holiday campaign to help you steer clear of unhealthy temptations and get through the season without gaining weight. Check out delicious, low-cal holiday recipes from The Biggest Loser Cookbook on iVillage and go to NBC.com for fitness tips from Jillian Michaels.
Posted by Michelle McIvor on December 18, 2007 07:02 PM
Bill, you have done an excellent job! You hit the nail on the head when you said you and Jim were going to win. Congratulations. I kind of felt you were going to win when "B" got sent home. You and your brother have set some great examples and you are inspiring to others.
Posted by: Patti | December 19, 2007 03:49 PM
Bill,
Congrats to you,your brother, your coach, your team mates you all have made history.
1st twins on B.L.
1st twins to win at home and final 4.
1st group of rejects to sweep the other two teams.
1st single team to make it to the finale.
1st group to redefine the word team by your actions not by mere words.
You, your brother, Jillian, and your team mates are to be applauded for the difference you made and the impact you bestowed upon hundreds of thousands of overweigh individual including myself.
GO BLACK JACK
B= belief in self and others
L= leadership in all you do
A= attitude is the difference
C= commitment to goals
K= knowledge is power
Ray
Posted by: Ray | December 20, 2007 06:33 PM
CONGRATULATIONS TUNA!!!!!
MY SONS WOULD REMIND US EVERY TUESDAY THAT UNCLE TUNA WOULD BE ON T.V.
WE ARE PROUD OF BOTH YOU AND YOUR BROTHER.
PLAINEDGE IS PROUD OF YOU.
Posted by: lisa | December 21, 2007 02:11 PM
I know you said you wished you had played the game more, but in the end, it's your ignoring the game as much as possible and just doing the 'right thing' that made you my favorite of all the finalists. As a twin myself, I was rooting for both of you. (Though I won't lie, I would have been happy if Kae would've won the at home too ^_^) Best of luck on your new chapter in life.
Posted by: Ryan | December 21, 2007 03:47 PM
Bill,
Congratulations on being the biggest loser! I'm sorry to say I was hoping it would be Hollie or Julie but you clearly kicked ass! You and your family must be so proud. You look amazing, very handsome! Thank you for being such an inspration to me and millions of others. Again CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Kristy,Cadiz,Ky. | December 21, 2007 09:35 PM
HI Bill!!
Congrats on being "The BIGGEST Loser". I was pulling for you and your brother from the moment your Black Team member voted to split the two of you up. I even commented on Jillian's web-site blog that I hoped you and your brother would win the At Home 100K and the 250K! Awesome job! You both look fantastic and have inspired me to get off my couch and take control of my life!
You and your brother have been the most 'outstanding and respectful' contestants in 5 seasons of BL. Your families must be proud!
WAY TO GO TWINS!!!!!
JJ Knoxville, TN
Posted by: jj | December 22, 2007 01:46 PM
Congrats. Remember that you just have to want to be happy and healthy MORE than you want to have that snack!
Good luck.
Posted by: Peter | December 23, 2007 09:54 AM
I've only read about Bill where I live I can't see the show. But could you tell me how these people lose weight? what methods do they use?
Posted by: sbrn | December 23, 2007 07:11 PM
Bill-amazing job of becoming the biggest loser! you have made an amazing change to your life and being able to be active with your children and their lives! i have to admit that i really wasnt rooting for you the whole season! i wanted one of the girls to win but i still congradulate you for your winning and your comitment towards a healthy lifestyle!
Posted by: ky | December 26, 2007 02:29 PM
Congratulations Bill! I was SO happy to see the black team beat the competition, and out of the black team you were my favorite all along. I'm so happy you won and that you and all the BL contestants were able to be such an inspiration to everyone. I know on Tuesday nights I worked my exercise equipment twice as hard watching you guys.
Posted by: Andie S. | December 27, 2007 10:26 PM
hello bill congrats on your success i wish i was on that show i also have a weight problem how do can i get on that show please let me know happy new year
Posted by: evelyn sanchez | January 1, 2008 09:18 PM
Bill,
You and your brother are real inspirations. I look in the mirror and see me in your old pics. What did you do that we did not see on the show. What was your basic routine and diet like?
Posted by: Tom B. | January 1, 2008 09:33 PM
Bill I enjoyed watching the Biggest Loser because of the person you are. You are truly a gentleman and I was happy to see you win it all. You supported everyone and you define what a team player truly is. Congratulations and continue working hard!
Posted by: JR | January 2, 2008 11:37 AM
Congratulations Bill. My mother is a former employee of where you work. She always sent updates when they were given. You did a wonderful job.
Posted by: E. D. | January 2, 2008 12:40 PM
I was so rooting for you even though I didn't get to watch until the middle of the show. I had to work so I had to miss several episodes, but I was thinking and praying for you. I was so glad to know you had made your goal. Congratulations and keep it up!
Posted by: Vicky | January 3, 2008 11:52 AM
Bill, it was nice to see some one with your class put in the hard work and have it pay off. Nice guys don't always finish last they sometimes get the money. Congrats and enjoy the new you! Semper Fi!
Posted by: Seth | January 7, 2008 12:54 AM
Bill nice job staying on track. I'm 5'7" like your brother, 35 years old and 250 I want to get where you and your brother are and lose the gut and get the guns(arms)up to par. how much running do you do and as food is it all organic or just portions?
Posted by: george | January 10, 2008 03:44 PM
Bill
Great job I was rooting for you all the way. Being a twin Im sure had its advantage when you went back home. Like all the other comments mention your class stood out. A friend of mine said you and your bro were going to be in the Maryland/W. Virginia ares soon I was wondering if that is so and could you let me know where thanks.Again congrats on your accomplishments
Posted by: Keith | January 10, 2008 09:17 PM
What a great surprise it was to see both you and your brother on TV. It was a job well done...congratulations. I'm sure that all of Elmont was cherring for both of you. Seeing you on TV reminded me of our band in high school. I wish you continued success.
Frank the drummer
Posted by: Bill | January 11, 2008 11:54 AM
Bill, I knew you and Jim would kick butt at the finals. I have identical twin brothers who have always been so competitive with each other, in a friendly way. The pushed each other to succeed by being competitive. I know it is that way for you and Jim, too. Way to go!
Posted by: Mary | January 11, 2008 12:29 PM
Hi Bill! I just saw you at the NBC Health and Fitness Expo in DC. Thanks for being there and answering so many questions. I didn't get to ask about two things that you mentioned: drinking enough water - how it affects metabolizm and the high calorie days that reset your body. How do each of these work? Thanks and congratulations, you both look great and are a true inspiration!
Posted by: Annie | January 12, 2008 06:52 PM
Hey Bill,
Greetings from Grand Haven, Michigan to you and your brother Jim. A hearty congrats is in order for you both. You kicked so much ass it was unbelieveable! I loved all of the heart, blood, sweat and tears you and your brother put in to winning both prizes and for changing your lives for the better. You absolutely have no clue on how much you both inspired me to make those same changes for myself. I am 35 and weigh 185 lbs. right now. I need to lose 50 to 60 lbs. I know it doesn't seem like much compared to what you guys lost in weight but for a 5'1" frame it's a ton, trust me. I have severe acid reflux due to this condition and a serious lacking of energy. I started an intense exercise program consisting of spinning, eliptical, free weights and weight lifting six days a week for at least an hour and a half or more. I also have my beloved Ab-Lounge for at home. My goal is to have it all or most of it off by April 30. I know I can do it and I thank you both for inadvertently giving me that kick in the ass I needed to get the ball rolling. I am so stoked about what you guys did it was unbelievable. I know all of your family and friends are extremely proud of you. So best of luck to both of you guys in the future. I can't thank you both enough for how you've inspired me. Thank you, Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Posted by: Tammey Brown | January 13, 2008 05:56 PM
Bill-
Congrats on all of the hard work and amazing results that you and Jim were able to achieve. I'm writing for a different reason than most. As soon as I saw the two of you on tv, you looked familiar. I'm very good at recognizing faces and remembering names. It doesn't matter whether I knew the person a long time ago, or met them just recently. I know that you guys currently live, w/ your families, on Long Is. I'm originally from Long Is. too. I grew up in Valley Stream, went to Elmont w/ my brothers, and I'm the same age as the two of you. So, if you guys aren't familiar for any of these reasons, maybe it's just a lot of coincidences. Just thought I'd send a note, and get your thoughts. Congrats again,on a job very well done!
Cindy
Posted by: Cindy, Naperville, IL | January 14, 2008 07:45 PM
Bill, you and your brother were my favorites from the beginning--you were such gentlemen. You both deserved the honor of biggest losers.I hope you will be able to maintain your weight loss and I'll be looking for updates.
Posted by: Barb | January 31, 2008 11:11 AM
I love the show, I think it has been so inspirational to so many people, including myself. The cookbook has also been very useful to me at home. I was so pleasantly surprised when all the recipes I tried turned out great. I think I've tried everything in it by now and reading the stories about the contestants in there is inspiring too. Devin Alexander (Biggest Loser Cookbook author) is coming out with a new book in April, I can't wait to try some new recipes from her.
Posted by: Clara | February 1, 2008 05:09 PM
I knew you twins would show up on the Larry King show. I'm surprised you guys haven't gotten your own Health show. The first time I watched The Biggest loser and said: those twins are gonna win, I had no doubts. Bill, all I can say is a Big Congradulations to you, your twin Jim and your families. I still can't believe you twins are 41 years old, you look 15 years younger. Take Care and God Bless!
Posted by: Sonya | February 2, 2008 02:53 PM
What did you eat on the show to lose and get ripped at the same time?
Posted by: Joe | February 4, 2008 08:23 PM
Bill
A big What's up from Grand Haven, Michigan to you and your bro Jim once again. Since my last post on 1-13 I have lost 13 lbs. thus far and tons of inches. I am down four pant sizes as well. I work at Shape Corp. here in G.H. and we have our own Gym at our shop called the Fitness Factory. We've got an awesome staff of five health experts that do the spinning, circuit training, yoga and pilates classes as well as personal training, health and wellness classes etc. It is a great program that Shape Corp. has. This program along with how you and Jim have inspired me is just the best. I will never go back to where I was before. I have before and after pictures of the both of you in my gym locker as well for inspiration. Sometimes you get those days where you don't feel like doing anything and I just take a quick glance and that feeling goes right out the window.
Now a couple of questions for ya. First, when my husband prepares stuff at home we add up all the calories from each individual ingredient. The thing is though, how do you get an accurate calorie count when it is all prepared?
Next, I read that you Bill used to sing in an 80's metal hair band. What was the name of the band? I am an 80's metal head all the way! Are you still a Metal Head? I have between 1000 and 1200 metal cds mostly 80's stuff from like thrash metal, traditional/power metal, NWOBHM and of course tons of hair bands and some newer Power Metal and newer throwback/hipster metal bands. This stuff makes working out all that much more fun. The heavier the music the more adrenaline I have. Is music an essential part of your workout?
You guys rule! Horns Up!
Thanks Again!
Tammey Brown
Posted by: Tammey Brown | February 9, 2008 03:57 PM
Bill:
Congratulations!
I work with teens with disabilities on Long Island (Nassau County) and wonder whether you'd be willing to make a brief presentation to our group?
Thanks!
Posted by: Julianna | February 12, 2008 04:09 PM
Jim,
My family and I recently relocated to LI, I am currently 45 years old and 327 which is an all time high. It seems every year the weight is coming on faster. I have two young boys I want to see get older. Would love the opportunity to pick your brain as to what you have learned. I have applied twice for the show but no response. It is guys like you that make me feel it is possible. Look forward to your response. JJ
Posted by: John J. | February 17, 2008 08:33 AM
Sorry Bill, I addressed to Jim because I was just reading the Blog reagarding your brother. It is amazing what both of you are doing. JJ
Posted by: John J | February 17, 2008 08:37 AM
I loved your competitive spirit on the show. Congrats on the weight loss...you totally worked hard for it. :) Thanks for the inspiration. :)
Posted by: Joanna Z. | March 5, 2008 10:32 AM
How come on nbc biggest loser site they have used the same picture for you and your brother. I know your twins but the exact pose for both profile pics? GREAT JOB TO BOTH OF YOU.
Posted by: Anonymous | April 8, 2008 10:13 PM
Bill, thank you for being an inspiration for us all; your words of encouragement are still very vivid for me.
Posted by: Kessea | April 9, 2008 04:49 PM
dude i knew u would when u r awesome luv u man
Posted by: Kasey | April 9, 2008 11:39 PM
Hey Bill!
Thanks for everything that you've done for my friend Kenny and myself. Without your support, guidance and advice that you have given us we would not be where we are today. Many thanks! You Rule!
Tammey Brown
Tammey Brown
Posted by: Tammey Brown | April 19, 2008 03:15 PM
hi im twin also are was she died at 4yrs old but i 321pds have put the weight on the last 12 yrs do to teenage kids lol. and this and that real.now im need to get my weight down.so i can live and walk right. ive tried now and to loose let everyone get in the why bad excuse i know
Posted by: reatha wilkerson | April 28, 2008 02:57 PM
Hi Bill, I've been watching you on TV here in Beaupré(30 minutes east of Quebec city) and after the final and after I've read the book THE SECRET, I just print your final photo, the one you've lost 164 pounds. WOW. Think about it, you're now my goal.I started at 310 I'm now at 286 and you're my inspiration. I'd really appreciate to contact you by e-mail if it's possible. It would be a motivation for me. Stéphane Morency
Posted by: Stéphane | June 29, 2008 02:56 PM
Hey Bill, This is Greg from Tamarack. I don't know if you had a chance to e-mail me or not,my e-mail wasn't working for a while. I was wondering what you thought of the product and the web site. mygrenx.com/superleaf
Posted by: Greg C | August 21, 2008 08:02 PM
Bill- Congrats on all your hard work and your rock-hard body. You look incredible! Although I'm happy for you, I do wish a woman could win The Biggest Loser eventually!
Posted by: Ann | December 19, 2007 10:06 AM