What I Did:
As a young teen my weight soared to 325 pounds and by adulthood I had many medical problems (including high blood pressure). I had been on diets and they did not work so I decided to exercise. That saved my life.
I began slowly -- even through the pain I did it because my health was now in danger. It took me more than two years to lose 140 pounds and I never looked back. I have been a size 10-12 for more than 20 years and it feels and looks great.
Today, I am the creator of Shapelygirlfitness.com and I work with plus size women who want to lose weight and get fit.
How I Did It:
I gave up dieting and started to exercise three to four days a week. I wanted to give up many times, but I did not, as that was not an option because I had quit so many times and was determined to do this.
Once the pounds started to come off, I started to work on my food. Good nutrition is the second key to losing and keeping weight off. I gave up junk food and looked at portion control. Today, my diet is about 80 percent fresh and whole foods that are good for my body.
Tips and Tricks
- 1. Exercise, 3-5 times a week.
- 2. Eat fruits and veggies.
- 3. Limit alcohol.
- 4. Get support.
- 5. Get rest.
- 6. Get rid of junk food.
- 7. You are worth this.
- 8. Do not give up, even when you want to.
- 9. Drink lots of fluids.
- 10. Have patience, it will happen.
What was your main motivator to lose weight?
My health was deteriorating and depression was beginning to set in.
What was the hardest part of losing weight?
Giving up the foods I loved that where a big part of my life. Looking at the reasons I ate so much. Letting go of food, my love.
What was the most surprising part of weight loss?
That once I stayed committed it became much easier to stick to it.
What would you say to someone who is "on the fence"?
It is time to get your life in order, especially if your health is being compromised. Keep telling yourself that you can do it, get the support you need and trust yourself to make those changes
