New Bedford ‘Biggest Loser’ Contestant Reacts to Netflix Documentary

One of Netflix’s most popular documentaries right now is Fit for TV: The Reality of The Biggest Loser. The three-part series revisits the weight loss competition that had America hooked from 2004 through 2016.

The documentary pulled many of us back into a world we lived 18 years ago. Among those reflecting was New Bedford’s own Jay Kruger, who competed with his brother Mark during the first “couples” season of the hit NBC show.

What Did Jay Kruger Think of the Netflix Documentary

Kruger said the special captured some truths but only skimmed the surface.

“They touched on so many things and then moved on,” he said. While the original show was billed as a weight loss journey, Jay recalled it quickly turning into fierce competition. Contestants even resorted to dehydrating to hit their numbers.

“You chase it every week,” he said. "And it gets harder.”

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Life with Trainers Jillian and Bob

Kruger described Jillian Michaels and Bob Harper as two very different motivators. Jillian pushed with intensity, while Bob focused on emotions. As a husband and father at the time, Kruger said Bob’s approach worked better for him. He couldn't respond well to the yelling.

Life After The Biggest Loser

The hardest part wasn’t the workouts or weigh-ins, but what came after.

“When they were done with you, they just didn’t care anymore,” he said. Without doctors, trainers, or a strict routine, contestants had to figure out real life on their own. Most of them failed to maintain their new bodies.

Kruger admitted he gained weight after the finale, inevitable after living on 1,400 calories and eight-hour workouts. Over time, however, he found balance through SALT fitness and support from family.

Today he still trains, still spins, and laughs about his first post-show indulgence.

“I just wanted a french fry," he said.

Could They Get Away with The Biggest Loser in 2025?

"Not a chance," Kruger said.