• by David Goetzl , February 2, 2011

Verizon Wireless will play a Dr. Phil role in a new reality series on Univision cable network Galavisión. Debuting Thursday, the show focuses on couples trying to rekindle the spark that first brought them to the altar. Smartphones help them along.

"El Peso del Matrimonio (Back in Wedding Shape)" features a new couple each week, where the pair have added some pounds and are in need of an energy lift after years of marriage. And they embark on a path to improve their physical shape and emotional mindset.

Enter the Verizon devices: Each participant gets one and uses various apps to help chart progress, such as tracking caloric intake and calling on a virtual trainer. Also, the show's host/lifestyle coach Claudia Caporal will send along encouraging text messages during the makeovers.

Verizon may also benefit as Univision online and mobile offerings will include an array of added content.

"El Peso del Matrimonio's" production involves Ricky Martin Entertainment. The series airs Thursdays at 9 and follows a single couple's rejuvenation efforts from blah to bliss each week.

Galavisión is in more than 54 million homes, and offers news from Mexico, soccer, and lifestyle series, among other programming.