'Biggest Loser' trainer Jillian Michaels to appear at She expo

Jillian Michaels might just be the hottest trainer around.

And she's coming to Chattanooga July 10.

Ms. Michaels, who gained fame as a strength trainer and life coach on the NBC series "The Biggest Loser," will be a special guest at She: An Expo for Women, which is scheduled July 10-11 at the Chattanooga Convention Center.

An estimated 10,000 people per day attended the 2009 expo, which welcomed fashionista Stacy London and celebrity chef Paula Deen.

Ms. Michaels might just be the key to fit into the stylish clothes Ms. London recommended to women of the Scenic City after indulging in Ms. Deen's butter-filled delicacies.

"We are excited to bring such a motivating force to Chattanooga," said Jason Taylor, Times Free Press president and general manager. "Jillian has been a huge inspiration for millions struggling with personal fitness. She will make a great addition to the 2010 She expo."

According to her Web site, Ms. Michaels' initial interest in health and wellness stems from a personal struggle with weight loss. "She was determined to reach her goals," her biography states, "and through dedication and hard work, she did."

Ms. Michaels has been training in martial arts for 17 years. She holds a black belt in akarui-do and practices muay Thai. Since 1993, Ms. Michaels has held personal training certificates from both the National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association and the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America.

A contributor to Self magazine, Ms. Michaels is the author of three fitness books - "Master Your Metabolism," "Winning by Losing: Drop the Weight, Change Your Life" and "Making the Cut."

She is scheduled to release two books in April: "Master Your Metabolism Cookbook" and "Master Your Metabolism Calorie Counter." Ms. Michaels also has released several exercise DVDs and has two video games for the Nintendo Wii, "Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2009" and "Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2010."

An entrepreneur, Ms. Michaels launched Empowered Media, LLC, which uses these media, plus online health plans and communication, to spread a message of health, living well and overall fitness and lifestyle. The company motto is "inspired by Jillian, empowered by you."

Upcoming Events