Stella lost 23 pounds

Stella lost 23 pounds and several dress sizes. She wanted to show herself and her sons that you can do anything you put your mind to. Beachbody programs, clean eating and setting realistic goals has worked for her.

After going through a divorce and battling low self esteem, I decided to change my life. I began to change my eating habits and joined fitness classes to begin to feel better about my myself. 3 years later, I’ve gone from about a size 16 to a size 10. I’ve lost almost 30 pounds, and now I am a health and fitness coach encouraging other women to take their lives back and make themselves a priority.

What inspired you to keep going when you wanted to give up?
I always went back to the reason why I started when I thought about giving up. My goal was to show myself that I can do anything, and to be a role model for my boys. I want to show them we can do anything we put our minds to. I do not want to let them down and I certainly don’t want to let myself down.

How did you change your eating habits?
I started by changing one meal a day. For example, instead of stopping at the gas station for a donut, I opted for yogurt or oatmeal instead. I gradually added more fruits and vegetables to my daily routine as well.

What did your workout routines look like?
I starting walking and then tried Zumba for the first time. Zumba was the first exercise that I didn’t get bored with. At the time, I still did not know how to eat clean completely. I found my Beachbody coach on Facebook a year ago. I joined Beachbody 10 months ago and recently became a coach because of how the programs have changed my life. I now run, do Zumba, workout at home with DVDs and exercise in the gym. I pretty much do it all.

Starting weight/Current weight?
My starting weight was 220 pounds and I currently weigh 197 pounds. I’ve lost over 12 inches off all over. I am 5’7″.

When did you start your journey?
I became committed to my journey in August 2016.

What advice do you have for other people who want to lose weight?
My advice is to set a realistic goal, such a 3 pounds a month, and work your way up. Make a good goal and say no to pop or candy, except one time a week… or something like that. It just has to be realistic for YOU. Don’t compare yourself or your progress to anyone else. Find a support group and stick with like-minded people who are on the same path as you.

Instagram: @mind_over_matter_fittness