Big Tom Continues Weight Loss Journey

By Terry Hood, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- A number of News On 6 viewers are calling to ask about Big Tom Basler, the Tulsa musician on a mission to lose 200 pounds.

Tom has lost about 75 pounds and is keeping his eye on the goal line as he tries to find a "new weigh."

He and his trainer Jonathan Conneely were spotted this week on the track at Oral Roberts University. 

Tom has come a long way in his training in the past 10 weeks, and he can absolutely feel the difference.

"It used to be when I would work out I was sore for a day or two," he said. "Now I feel pretty chipper about an hour after I work out.

Tom had been warned by his doctors that if he didn't lose weight, he faced the possibility of amputation and even early death. 

When he signed up for Health4Life, Tom was looking at all his options, including the possibility of gastric bypass surgery.  

"I've kind of temporarily put the brakes on that because ... I can't imagine that if I'd had gastric bypass I would have lost a lot more than 70 pounds in 12 weeks," he said.

Tom is also quick to point out he's not on a diet. This is a lifestyle change that Tom vows will be permanent.

"I'm just eating the way you should eat," he said. "I was thinking to myself yesterday, I can't remember the last time I had fried food. But I don't miss it, you know."

Tom says he doesn't deprive himself. If he wants a cookie, he has a cookie. He just doesn't eat the whole box.

None of this is to say that what he's doing is easy.

"This is no day at the beach," Tom said. "This is work and dedication. And I'm very thankful for the people who are helping me be accountable. But ultimately, you just gotta do it."

Next week, The News On 6 will have a revealing conversation with Tom's trainer about the weight loss benefits of exercise versus diet, and his No. 1 recommendation for those of looking to lose 10 pounds or so.