De lost 70 pounds

Transformation of the Day: De lost 70 pounds. Initially, she was tired of being sick and tired, and just wanted to be skinny. With time, she changed her focus from getting skinny to being in the best shape of her life. By focusing on nutrition, fitness and faith, she has truly transformed. Check out her story.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going when you wanted to give up?
Initially, I wanted to get skinny. I was sick and tired of being sick and tired. After a month of wanting to get skinny, I had to change my focus to something more. So, I set out to get in the best shape of my life. My faith was a direct motivator and helped me during the times that I wanted to give up.

How did you change your eating habits? 
I have changed my eating habits dramatically. I went from a drive-thru and convenience food junkie to clean eater 80-90% of the time.  Most foods that I consume that come in a package have under 7 ingredients. I cook and pack most of my meals. I try to keep it simple by focusing on protein and produce, which has worked for me and the women I coach.

I did eliminate dairy and C.R.A.P (Carbonated drinks, Refined sugars, Artificial sweeteners and flavors and Processed food) from my diet. Now, I eat F.O.O.D (Fruits and Veggies, Organic or natural meats, Omega 3 fats and Drink water) about 98% of the time.

What did your workout routine look like?
When I first began this journey, I would get in 3 strength training days each week and maybe one cardio day.  Now, fitness is a lifestyle for me. I workout often, usually doing about 4 days of strength training and 3-4 days of cardio. On average, 5 days a week you can definitely catch me at the gym.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
When I started this journey and actually weighed myself, I weighed 203 pounds. Today, I weigh 133 pounds.  On my competition day, I weighed 125 pounds. This was the smallest I had been my adult life after having my babies. I stand tall at 5’3″.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I officially began my journey in August 2015 (without starting and stopping). It took me two years to get to the place that I wanted.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
Consistency takes a long time, but it really does work. Anything that you set your heart and your prayers on will and can come true. I have gained so much confidence, independence and strength from this journey. I am completely comfortable with who I am and willing to go the path alone if need be. Before starting this journey, I based my life off of other people’s opinions. My anxiety kept me hostage at home most of the time. Now, I am willing to do and go almost anywhere. I’m not looking for anyone’s approval but my own.

What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
My advice will always be, “shortcuts are overrated“. Trust the process, fall in love with it and then use it to help others. In the beginning, weight loss is always exciting and fun but it’s the middle that creates the victory. Find someone who not only knows what they are talking about, but are qualified to help you. Your consistent efforts will get results. It just takes time.

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