Shannon lost 98 pounds

What was your motivation?
My initial motivation was a going through a painful and exhausting experience back in early 2017. I needed to find the resolve to pick up the pieces, but also to improve my self-esteem and self-love.

What inspired you to keep going when you wanted to give up?
My children inspired me. I want to be around when they have children of their own. I also no longer wanted to be a pre-diabetic or take high blood pressure medication any longer.

How did you change your eating habits?
I stopped eating late at night, and try to stop eating by 7 or 8pm. I also measured everything I ate to ensure that I was eating smaller sizes and the correct serving size of foods. I usually eat small meals every 2-3 hours and try to eat my largest meal for lunch.

I didn’t use any type of diet program. I just figured out what would work best for me. I cut out fast food, but will occasionally have waffle fries from Chik-fil-A. I cut out fried foods, and white rice and bread as well. I eat a lot of fresh fruits and salads. Now, I try to incorporate a protein with each meal to build more lean muscle. I also became a vegetarian at the beginning of 2018.

What did your workout routine look like?
I work out at least 6 times per week. In the beginning, I did 60 minutes of cardio and light weight training. Eventually, I was doing about 75 minutes of cardio and 30-45 minutes of strength training. Now, my workouts are made up of more strength training, at least 45 minutes, and 20-30 minutes of cardio.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
Starting weight: 243 pounds
Lowest weight: 137 pounds
Current weight: 145 pounds
Height: 5’5″
I initially dropped down to 137 pounds, but I gained more lean muscle. Now, I’m at 145 pounds.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started in February 2017. It took me about a year.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
NEVER GIVE UP! We are a lot stronger than we give ourselves credit for.
If you ALWAYS do what you always DID, you’ll ALWAYS get what you always GOT!

What advice do you have for people who want to lose weight?
The same response as above plus… Eliminate people/situations from your life if your goals will be compromised. You are the MOST important person in YOUR life!

Instagram: @shannonosophy