Latrecia lost 35 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Latrecia lost 35 pounds and gained lean muscle from weight training. She started this journey because she was tired of high blood pressure and not being happy. She cut out the junk and worked to get the most out of her gym membership. Her children, grandchildren and her best friend are her motivation. Check out her journey.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going when you wanted to give up?
My motivation came from being tired of being tired. It also came from being on blood pressure medication and not being happy with myself. Was going through a divorce and I became depressed. My kids, my grandkids and my best friend motivate me. My best friend and I decided to challenge ourselves to go on a weight loss journey together.

How did you change your eating habits?
I fasted from sweet tea first, because that was water for me. I had to go cold turkey. No fast food, no bread and no sweets. I ate more vegetables, ground turkey or turkey based products. I went to see a nutritionist to develop a meal plan and overall weight loss plan.

What did your workout routine look like?
Initially, I worked out six days a week on the treadmill and bike for an hour. As the weight started dropping, I increased my workouts to least four days a week for at least thirty minutes each time. I added weight training into the picture just this year, doing leg press, squats, planks and working on my arms. Now, I do least 20 minutes of weight training and 20-30 minutes on the treadmill. I use a speed of 4 and an incline of 4. (Tip: Put the treadmill on an incline and use a speed that works best for you.)

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 180 pounds and I dropped down to 137 pounds. When I started using weights, my weight increased so I currently weigh 145 pounds. However, I wear the same size clothing that I did at 137 pounds, which is a size 8. I’m 5’4″.

When did you start your journey?
I started right after Mother’s Day 2016 and reached my weight goal in October 2017.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
My biggest lesson is consistency and me being my biggest fan. I had days that I didn’t want to go to the gym. I had days that I ate foods that I didn’t need, but I was also consistent with going to the gym to work it off. I got a gym membership at Planet Fitness to hold me accountable. They are getting my money so I need to be using their equipment.

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose the weight?
My advice would be to stick to your plan and not give up. If you need to see a nutritionist to help you get on a healthy eating plan, then do it. Some weight loss plans are covered under flexible spending accounts. Also, don’t forget to drink water and exercise.

The pic on the left is April 2017 and pic on right is August 2018.