Chris Powell exploded onto the fitness scene with his unorthodox approach, becoming a pioneer for a new hybrid of fitness professionals. He has captured national attention with the largest and fastest natural weight loss ever documented, transforming the life of David Smith, who lost 401 lbs. in 26 months. It was Chris' unyielding dedication to another that captured the heart of America, as he shared his story on such national shows as The Oprah Winfrey Show, 20/20, The View, as well as a one-hour documentary for TLC.
Chris is currently traveling the country in Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition, a documentary-style series in which he uses his innovative techniques, education and expertise to guide extremely overweight individuals as they shed hundreds of pounds in the course of a year. This unique, non-competitive show about weight loss assembles each participant's story into a stand-alone episode.
Chris is taking an extra step as he guides the participants through their transformations by moving into their homes. By assuring that they have the proper nourishment and exercise movement, he provides a fresh perspective to individuals whose lives have become unmanageable because of their weight. Chris is well-equipped to take on this latest assignment. He holds a degree in Exercise Science, with concentrations in biomechanics and physiology and the training accreditation, The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). He has been the Transformation Pro on KTVK's Good Morning Arizona for the last six years - delivering tips, shortcuts, and tricks of the trade to the largest news viewing audience in Arizona.
He also knows firsthand what it's like to struggle with body image. At age 14, Chris was the smallest kid in school, no match on the football field for kids who were 40 to 50 pounds heavier than him. With encouragement from his parents, he took up weight-lifting, which transformed his body within a few months. He was able to gain an edge, not by size, but by strength. This personal victory proved to him the potential of the human body and ultimately set him on a life-changing career path.
"The human body is an amazing machine that we can transform naturally," Chris says. "I have devoted my being to developing innovative lifestyles and tools to enrich the lives of others - and each life changed has been a remarkable gift."
In addition, Chris is working on an inspiring weight loss and fitness book to be published by Hyperion in October 2011.