He is seeking nominations to participate in the Hurricane Studios' fitness drive, which began on August 1 and involves 40 people training three times a week for six weeks.

The participants nominate a preferred charity and collect pledges from family and friends while shedding the

unwanted kilos.

``The challenge is about raising money for charity, giving people a chance to accomplish a goal they're unsure how to achieve and helping people think about their health and wellbeing during winter, as it's a lazy

time of the year,'' Mr Abdel-Sayed said.

``Research by the NSW Department of Health shows Nepean is the third fattest urban area in the state.

``Obesity is a very important issue and it's on the climb, over 50 per cent of Australians, including one-in-four kids, is overweight and it's expected to stay that way, which is pretty alarming.''

The Challenge is an enhanced sequel to last year's impressed premiere, when Mr Abdel-Sayed ran a similar program and trained 11 people to drop a com

bined 101 ilograms of body fat.

``Last year's group couldn't believe how much weight they lost and it made a huge difference in their personal

lives,'' he said.

``It's not very difficult to lose weight.

As long as people follow my guidelines and be a little bit willing to achieve their personal goal.

``They'll get the tools, training, nutrition advice and motivational support to establish a balance in their exercise, eating habits and lifestyle.''

Mr Abdel-Sayed knows first-hand what it's like to be overweight and said he hoped to prevent others from the same experience.

``I've been overweight myself and I know what it's like to gain 20 or 30 kilograms and the effect it has on your

physical and mental wellbeing,'' he said.

``Seeing the results and seeing people's lives change is the best part of being a personal trainer.''

To join the 40-Day Charity Challenge, contact Mario on 0424 174 157 or visit hurricane studios.com.au