Alison Sweeney Talks Why Jillian Michaels Left 'The Biggest Loser'

Alison Sweeney joined as host of The Biggest Loser in 2007 where she befriended personal trainer and now fitness mogul Jillian Michaels. Sweeney talks to this month's issue of FITNESS on Michaels' departure from the show.

"As a friend, I could relate to [Jillian] leaving," the former Days of Our Lives actress said. "She made the decision that was best for her and her family, and I admire her for being true to herself. As a co-worker, I'm sad because I miss her, but new people bring new dynamics, which is what makes a good show. And our new trainers are awesome."

In June, NBC confirmed that trainer Michaels, would not be returning for season 16 of The Biggest Loser: Glory Days.

Since joining in 2004, the celebrity trainer has left the show twice. While the former departures were mainly do to family reasons -she has two children- this time it was for different reasons surrounding conflicting agreements from the show's producers.

"I don't want fans to think I feel like I'm too big for the show or that I'm seeking greener pastures. I'm so grateful to the show and so sad to leave," she told People Magazine. "There were some fundamental differences that have existed for a while."

Controversy rose last year during season 15 when winner Rachel Frederickson, 24, lost 155-pounds and left the nation and trainers shocked. The show was hit with accusations that The Biggest Loser was taking things to far in regards to body image and weight loss.

However Sweeney still remains a stable figure on the show and has been a great role model for fitness and health. "We bike, hike, swim, walk the dogs and play catch or kick the soccer ball around the yard," Sweeney tells FITNESS. "My parents introduced my bothers and me to so many fun things - skiing, hiking, waterskiing, It's a wonderful memory, and it's something my husband, Dave, and I want to share with our kids."

Catch The Biggest Loser: Glory Days every Thursday on NBC 8/7c