How Much Weight I Lost
70lbs currently with a final goal of 100lbs.
What Motivated Me to Lose Weight
I was getting into my car for work one day and heard myself grunting and moaning. It shocked and hurt me that I was struggling to do something so simple. The clarity of that moment in my garage was like a slap to the face and I realized just how much weight I had gained over the years. It's amazing how your mind can block out the things you don't want to deal with and I was completely ignoring what I was doing to my body. That was one of the saddest days of my life and the best day of my life. My eyes were wide open now and I had no choice but to fix the situation.
How I Lost Weight
Initially, I started working with personal trainers at Fitness Together. I needed lots of support and expert advice. One of the trainers convinced me to take up running as a way to get over a weight loss plateau. I had never run before and didnt think I could do it. I now run 3 miles/day, 4 times a week and have completed three 5k races. I have fallen completely in love with running. The physical and mental challenge of the sport speaks to my personality. Since running, the weight is coming off more consistently and more quickly. I've lost more inches in my waist, hips, and thighs due to the muscles used for running. I also strength train 3 days/week.
Tips and Tricks
- Use other metrics (body fat %) besides weight to measure success. Muscle weighs more than fat, but is leaner. You can weigh more, but look smaller.
- Address the reasons why you gained the weight in the first place or you'll just gain it all back. Weight gain is more than just about poor eating or lack of exercise. Do exercises that you enjoy or you wont make exercise a habit - you don't have to be in the gym to get exercise.
- KEEP A DAILY JOURNAL OF WHAT YOU EAT!!! The food journal has been the best weight loss tool. Don't diet - learn ways to eat healthy for LIFE, make exercise a priority & habit.
