Brittany lost 101 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Brittany lost 101 pounds. During her 7 year journey, she’s had ups and downs but she never gave up. Reading transformation stories, posting before photos on the fridge, prepping her meals and going to boot camp are just some of the ways that she stayed motivated and made progress. Check out her story.

What’s your motivation? What inspires you to keep going?
My motivation comes from the BWLW page, old photos of myself that I have on my refrigerator, meal prepping, going to boot camp, and wanting to live a better, healthier life.

How did you change your eating habits?
Secrets to my success:

• No fried foods during the week.
• No sodas at all!!
• I spend at least $30 in the produce section each time I shop, and buy very few items on the middle aisles.

Seafood and sautéed veggies with black beans and brown rice is one of my favorite go-to dishes. I typically don’t eat fast food, but if I’m out on the weekend without something to eat, I’ll get a 4 count kids meal nugget from Chick-fil-a. They’re so nice, so that’s my only exception to the rule #MyPleasure. Buying kids meals saves coins and calories too!

I have a cheat meal on the weekend, or I might swap days if I go out to dinner with friends during the week. I still do everything in moderation. I started eating out of a saucer until I had in moderation down and my portion sizes were under control. That way if you get seconds, it’ll technically only be one plate.

I still snack but I don’t go overboard. I do eat ice cream and I have a bowl designated just for that. I also love popcorn, Cheetos or corn chips with salsa. I also make sure that I pay attention to the serving sizes when I snack. I don’t see anything wrong with it as long as you don’t overindulge. Keep in mind that you’re changing your lifestyle (NOT DIETING) and you’re not on punishment. Live a little, work hard, and the results will show.

Starting weight/Current weight
My beginning weight was 312 pounds, and now I weigh 211 pounds. My height is 5’6”. My ultimate goal is to be at 199 pounds. I know that’s an odd number, but it’s just a personal accomplishment for me since I haven’t seen anything less than 200 on a scale in many, many years.

What does your workout routine look like?
My workouts include walking, running, participating in marathons, lifting weights and going to boot camp. I post Saturday or Sunday walking/running outings on my Facebook page each week, and invite anyone who’s interested in joining to go with me. I work out 3-5 times per week. I have a gym at my apartment that I take full advantage of, and I use the walking trails and bridges in my neighborhood.

When did you start your journey?
I initially started my journey in 2011, went strong for a few years and lost weight. Then, I got complacent and didn’t work out as much as I did when I first started. I bounced back in 2016, and it’s only getting better. So total, from the beginning till now, it’s been 7 years. Making healthy choices has become a habit that I refuse to break away from again.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
My biggest lesson learned is that you have to keep pressing no matter how tough things get. Also, be your own accountability partner. Other people can be helpful, but there will be times when they have to cancel or don’t show at all. GO ANYWAY, even if it means you have to go alone. There will be times when you feel like skipping a workout or giving up. At those times, KEEP ON PUSHING.

What advice would you share with other people who want to lose weight?
My advice is to take plenty of before pictures and post them on the refrigerator in case there’s temptation on the inside. Also, meal prepping helped me so much! There’s no guessing when the time comes to eat.

Set goals and SMASH them. Plan “goal gifts” when you do. A new pair of shoes, perfume or workout clothes motivates me.

Instagram: @ynattirb1980