Shivangi Sinha
Reality TV might seem glamorous, but participating in it can be grueling and far from what viewers imagine. NBC’s ‘The Biggest Loser’ in particular has faced heavy criticism over the years for its extreme weight-loss methods and the pressure it placed on contestants. Netflix’s documentary ‘Fit For TV: The Reality of The Biggest Loser’ dives into these concerns, featuring several former participants sharing their behind-the-scenes experiences. Among them is Hannah Young, who appeared alongside her sister, Olivia Ward, on season 11. Both spoke candidly about the physical and emotional toll the process took and whether it helped them at all.
Hannah Young Participated in the Show Along With Her Sister
Hannah Young shared that weight issues had never been a concern for her growing up. She was active in athletics, consistently making sports teams, and had a healthy relationship with her body image. That changed dramatically during her college years when she fell down a flight of stairs and was placed on extended bed rest. In just one year, she gained over 100 pounds. Around this time, her older sister, Olivia Ward, announced her decision to participate in the reality TV series. Initially, Hannah felt the show wasn’t for her, but Olivia pointed out that the amount of weight they needed to lose was similar to what many people across the country were struggling with. They shared this perspective with the producers, who invited both sisters to join season 11.
For Hannah, the experience was intense but never impossible. She took it on her own terms, noting that by the time she participated, the rules and pressure of the competition had eased compared to earlier seasons. Her determination paid off, and she finished as runner-up while Olivia won the season. The sisters quickly rose to fame, embarking on tours, attending events, and meeting fans nationwide. Beyond public recognition, Hannah credits the show for helping her address several underlying health concerns. Looking back, she expressed gratitude for taking the leap, saying the journey pushed her physically and emotionally while ultimately giving her a renewed sense of health and confidence.
Hannah Young is Working in the Fitness and Health Industry Today
Since making her debut in the reality TV world, Hannah Curlee Young has successfully reinvented her career. A graduate of the University of Alabama, she began her professional journey in PR and Corporate Communications with Nissan North America. However, after her experience on ‘The Biggest Loser,’ she found her true calling in health and wellness. For more than 12 years, she has worked as a weight loss specialist, helping clients achieve their goals through sustainable and personalized approaches. She is also affiliated with My Counter Balance, a holistic health and fitness management platform, where she conducts seminars, group coaching sessions, and motivational events.
In addition to her coaching work, Hannah has embraced the digital media space, building an authentic and growing presence on Instagram and TikTok. She shares everything from healthy recipes and weight-loss maintenance tips to glimpses into her personal life and the challenges she has overcome. Her content is known for its honesty, relatability, and practical advice, making her a trusted voice in the wellness community. Through her multifaceted career, Hannah has transformed her platform into a space that inspires and educates and continues to make a meaningful impact on people striving for healthier, more balanced lives.
Hannah and Her Husband Are Devoted to Raising Their Kids With Love and Care Today
Alongside her husband, Pete Young, a fitness trainer, Hannah Curlee Young has built a happy family life in Nashville, Tennessee. They have two kids, son Milo and daughter Margot, who was born in November 2023. Since the latter’s birth, Hannah has been candid about her postpartum journey and used her platform to share the realities and challenges, including her ongoing experience with PCOS and fertility. Her mission is to empower women to embrace happiness in whatever wellness plan works for them, focusing on sustainability over perfection.
She shares a close relationship with her parents and siblings. Her sister, Olivia Ward, and brother, Noah Curlee, often find the time to connect as a family and Hannah’s family is also a part of such gatherings. She is grateful for the role her father plays as a grandfather to her two children as well. In 2024, during a trip to Mexico, Hannah spoke about following an “80/20 lifestyle,” which balances nutritious eating and exercise with the flexibility to enjoy life’s indulgences. She credits this approach with improving her physical and mental well-being, allowing her to maintain her health without rigid restrictions. Hannah is someone who celebrates small victories, cherishes family moments, and strives to model a fulfilling lifestyle. Today, she is content, thriving, and using her voice to inspire others to find wellness and happiness on their own terms.
Read More: Joelle Gwynn: Where is The Biggest Loser Star Today?
