Twenty-two contestants, comprised of 11 pairs of family members, equate to the heaviest cast in show history; before heading to the ranch, the contestants must weigh-in in front of family, friends and neighbors; a strenuous bike challenge.

Dr. Huizenga delivers news to the contestants that change their outlook on weight loss, as well as their lives in genera. This week's physical challenge has contestants competing in a balance challenge over a pool. Later, Jillian helps one contestant overcome their fear of water. '

' The contestants assume the role of either teacher or student; a challenge grants immunity to the winning team; a contestant threatens to quit the competition.

' season 9 episode 4

This week, contestants are surprised by the return of the blue and yellow teams, who were sent home after the first challenge of the season. Now they're back, 30 days later, to weigh in and try to earn a spot back on the ranch. Then a vigorous football challenge tests everyone's stamina, except for one player sidelined with medical issues, and provides immunity for the winner , but a big disadvantage for the losing team. Later, after another elimination round sends a player home, host Alison Sweeney surprises the contestants with exciting news

Olympians Julia Mancuso, Jeret "Speedy" Peterson, J.R. Celski, Rockne Brubaker and Allison Jones Guest Star in a special Olympic-themed episode.

One if the contestants wins the temptation challenge and chooses the black and blue teams which creates controversy among the teams and trainers.

The blue and black teams compete in a challenge that tests their strength; the contestants must work eight-hour shifts at a food bank and make time for workouts.

Season 9, Episode 9

The Contestants return home for a visit and are expected to eat right and exercise; each contestant must ride the length of a marathon on a stationary bike while at home.

Eliminated contestants vie for a spot back in the competition; a friendship begins to unravel.

The competition heats up when the players learn how to get immunity for the week; a swimming challenge reveals who the players want to remain in the competition.

Financial adviser Suze Orman talks with the weight losers about how to manage their financial health. A challenge in the rain sends contestants searching for keys that unlock new cars for two of the players.

The contestants choose food from a buffet table offering low- and high-calorie choices; Gabrielle Reece, pro volley ball player, leads a beach-circuit workout; a contestant gets devastating news.

The remaining seven contestants head to Dallas to inspire Texans to live healthier lives; a wild challenge involves wrangling calves; the elimination leaves one player feeling lonely.

The weight losers spend $1,000 shopping for a new look and get makeovers from Jonathan Antin. Singer Ashanti performs for the contestants and their guests. The elimination becomes emotional when two contestants fall below the yellow line.

The weight losers receive an inspiring pep talk from Dallas Cowboys quarter back Tony Romo before he leads them on a hike. The contestants are visited by previous season winners to learn how to keep the weight off once they return home. The player with the lowest weight loss percentage is sent home.

Season 9, Episode 18

Daris and Koli, who fell below the yellow line at the last weigh-in, learn who America voted for to join Ashley and Michael in the final three. Three winners from previous seasons watch on from the audience. Another former contestant, Shaye, returns to complete her Subway challenge which started at last season's finale.