MANILA, Philippines - A weight loss program designed by a trainer from the hit TV show "The Biggest Loser Asia" is set to be launched in the Philippines next month.

Called the "Lose Big" program, the 13-week plan is designed specifically for people with a body mass index (BMI) of over 25 or a total body fat percentage of over 35%.

The program, created by "The Biggest Loser Asia" Blue Team trainer Dave Nuku, is set to be launched on March 24 in the Philippines in partnership with Fitness First.

"I know entering Biggest Loser Asia was a dream and hope for those battling with obesity and weight issues. This is why I created Lose Big Program because I believe getting fit and receiving proper guidance and motivation should be available for everyone," said Nuku, who is also the regional fitness manager for Fitness First Asia.

The Lose Big Program will only have a maximum of 16 people per course, with two qualified trainers leading a group of 8 people or less. There will be periodic weigh-ins throughout the program so participants can celebrate each other's progress.

Here are the four phases of the Lose Big Program:

• Courage (week 1) - In the first week, exercise will be gentle to get to know the participants' preferred phase. There will also be seminars conducted by trainers on how to make decisions about exercise and nutrition.
• Determination (weeks 2 to 8) - This is the time when you'll build a simple exercise format comprising of cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and flexibility.
• Momentum (weeks 9 to 11) - Also called the Dynamic phase, this is when participants should start feeling and seeing the difference in their bodies. At this point, they should be able to step up the pace to improve calorie consumption and body toning.
• Take Control (weeks 12 to 13) - By this time, you would have cut the fat and learned how to plan your own workout with your instructor.

For more details about the Lose Big Program, log on to www.timetolosebig.com.