Marissa lost 50 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Marissa lost 50 pounds. A college graduation photo served as her wakeup call. Instead of chasing a quick fix, she focused on food and exercise, and created a healthy lifestyle she could enjoy. She made a commitment to what she wanted and became her own competition. Check out her journey.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going when you wanted to give up?
The day after my College graduation, I was tagged in a photo and didnt recognize myself. My motivation was finding myself. I looked a old photos to keep myself encouraged.

How did you change your eating habits?
After trying various programs (such as 28 Fit Girl Guide and 10 Day Smoothie Cleanse), I realized that I needed a plan that I would actually enjoy. Quick fixes are temporary. For the first 2 months, I cut out all rice, pasta, fried foods, bread and alcohol. This jump started the first 20 pounds down. After that, I just ate in moderation and used FitBit to help me track calories.

What did your workout routine look like? How often did you workout?
I workout 4 days a week for 45 minutes to 1 hour. I do 30 minutes on the Elliptical and push for 30 minutes working on arms, legs and core.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight pounds 215 pounds and my current weight is 165 pounds. My height is 5’7″. No surgery or supplements involved.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
Started at 215 lbs in April 2016 and reached 165 lbs in February 2017 (10 Months).

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
You have to want to lose weight, change your lifestyle and be motivated MENTALLY!

What advice do you have for other people who want to lose weight?
It’s an amazing feeling to see yourself change into a new person (physically). You must want the change for yourself and be your own competition. Do not give up. When I wanted to skip the gym, I would say to myself, “You either want it or you don’t!”

Instagram: @mtalibah