Syreeta lost 62 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Syreeta lost 62 pounds with healthy eating habits and weight training. With pregnancy and motherhood, came the weight rollercoaster and body image challenges. When her youngest was almost two years old, this mother of three decided it was time to regain control of her health. Being disciplined and focused paid off for her.

I’m 36 years old, married, and a mother of three. My first pregnancy brought twins, and I’ve been on this weight rollercoaster ever since. I was never the thinnest person, but I was comfortable. Motherhood brought about challenges in my body image that I felt I wasn’t always able to control. When the twins were around 2 years old, I attempted my first try at getting my body “back” but found myself pregnant again, lol. With 3-year-old twins and a breastfeeding newborn, I tossed out any idea of a quick turnaround. When my youngest child was almost two and weaning, I regained the courage to try and improve my health again. 

I found a local gym that provided childcare. I packed up all my babies and headed there every other day. I haven’t looked back since. So, here I am, almost two years later. I have gained more progress than I could have ever imagined. Initially, I lost 80 pounds in about 11 months. But since then, I’ve put about 20 pounds of muscle back on.

What was your motivation? What inspired you when you wanted to give up?
I’ve just been driven. I wanted to improve my health and my appearance. I also wanted to regain the energy to keep up with my little ones. The physical changes came so quickly. When moments arose where I may have wanted to quit, they were easily dismissed. 

How did you change your eating habits?
I focused my intake on mostly protein and veggies. I reduced my intake of carbs and dairy. I was already drinking water, primarily, and was never a big snacker. Incorporating portion control and eating more protein and veggies (as opposed to anything else) helped greatly. I would also say that making an effort to cook your own food is a big help. I prepare about 95% of my food. 

What did your workout routine look like?
My approach to exercise is based on the discipline I have observed from bodybuilders. Incorporating weightlifting not only helps to burn fat, but it also shapes your body at the same time. Cardio is fine, but weightlifting is the key. I worked and still work out just three times a week with occasional light, bodyweight exercise, or stretching in between. 

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
I started at 237 pounds, and I currently weigh 175 pounds.

What is your height?
5’11”

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started in May 2018. I was at my lowest ever adult weight 11 months from there. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No surgeries. Just time, better food, and sweat.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson was that old cliche: Trust the process. So many times, I got to a point where I thought this was the best I could do just to be shown (through consistency) that there are so many levels to this journey. You never know how far you can go! 

What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
Stay the course! You can never be disappointed with genuine effort. Also, don’t undermine your efforts by giving in and doing the things you know you shouldn’t do. Changing your life is one thing that you, as an individual, have to do for yourself. 

Instagram: @madame_re_re