Chris Powell

Chris Powell, born in 1980, in Arizona, USA, is an American trainer and fitness expert, best known as the host in the 2011 ABC reality series, “Extreme Makeover: Weight Edition.”

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 his 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.

In 2011, Powell travelled around USA 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.

Powell also knows firsthand what it’s like to struggle with body image. At age 14, he 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.