US 'fat game show' under fire

Some critics say the show is a bad example of how to lose weight

An American TV game show for obese people is being criticised for the way it encourages contestants to lose weight.

It's like the talent show Dancing with the Stars but with a difference... all the contestants are overweight.

Dance Your Ass Off challenges obese people to lose weight through intensive dance and diet.

The one who grooves the best, and sheds the most pounds over two months, wins.

The worst person each week is eliminated and sent home.

Alberta Bradley's 34. She's hooked on the show.

She said: "I love it! I watch it on Mondays and you know, for a full-figured woman like myself, some of them don't think they can lose it.

"This show gives them hope and inspiration that they can dance and look better."

'Simply doesn't work'

But not everyone's a fan. Despite being popular with many Americans, critics say it encourages yo-yo dieting, with the weight likely to go straight back on after the contest ends.

The National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA) in the US explained to Newsbeat they'd never endorse a show like this one because they simply don't work.

Alberta Bradley says the show is an inspiration to lose weight

They said: "Overwhelming data has proven 95% of the time, people who diet for the purpose of losing weight, never reach their goal."

At a donut shop in downtown Manhattan, the owner, Gaz, is serving customers.

An assortment of muffins and cream cakes line the shelves behind the counter.

He said: "I find the show very offensive to fat people, even though I'm not fat. They're running around and dancing and everyone's laughing. You're making fun of them."

More than a million people tuned in to watch Dance Your Ass Off in its opening week.

It's hosted by Hairspray star Marissa Jaret Winokur who's known for her curves.

Don Cerullo lives in New York. He spent the morning in the gym.

He said: "I think it's a great idea for a show. Dancing is a great workout.

"I've tried it myself. And obesity is such a big issue in the States. You know, maybe this show will inspire people to exercise and lose weight."