Tanya lost 84 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Tanya lost 84 pounds. She wanted to compete in CrossFit and Strongman competitions in a lower weight class and become the healthiest person she could be. With the help of her coach, she ate clean and worked out hard. Her hard work has paid off. Check out her story.

What was your motivation?
My motivation to lose weight was my desire to compete in CrossFit and Strongman competitions in a lower weight class. I realized that working out as an obese person limited my flexibility and the speed required for some weight lifting movements. This spring, I participated in the 2016 CrossFit Open, and this summer I will be competing in a Strongman competition as a middle weight. I’ve realized that I just wanted to be healthy, mind and body.

What inspired you when you wanted to give up?
My inspiration when I wanted to give in was my desire to be the healthiest I have ever been as an adult. I have been dealing with obesity since my early teens. I am just beginning to recognize my triggers and learning how to deal with them. I love the way I feel and have been given a clean bill of health, which also pushes me to keep going.

How did you change your eating habits?
I embraced clean eating and it was the best way of eating for me, because it continues to teach me how to eat properly. I eliminated snacking on the wrong foods daily. Today, my menus are designed to incorporate a wide variety of foods, with limitations on sweets, alcohol, and snacks. I have learned to eat to fuel the body instead of eating for enjoyment.

I have completed 3 bootcamp contests and I am currently on a custom meal plan with iusetobeu.com. My Coach, Wiltrina Jones, has provided me with the necessary tools to be successful on my weight loss journey and beyond.

How often did you workout?
I worked out 5-6 days a week, 2-3 hours a day doing CrossFit, Olympic weight lifting, spin classes, and Bikram yoga.

Starting weight/Current weight
On August 24, 2015, I weighed in at 262.4 pounds. My current weight is 178.4 pounds. My  height is 5’3″.

How long did your transformation take?
I started on August 24, 2015, so it’s been approximately 11+ months.

What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
Weight loss and maintenance is a life long journey. You must take it one day at a time and realize no one is perfect but never give up. Also find yourself a great support group. You can do it alone but it is so much better doing it with those who are fighting the same battle you are.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
I had the gastric band done in January 2007, but it was not a part of my recent journey.