Shan lost 64 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Shan lost 64 pounds. Determined to break out of self-hate, she used self-love, patience, and discipline to change her life. She joined a black-owned, woman-owned gym in Dallas that provided the guidance and support she needed. She also adopted a plant-based diet.

I hate to say I hated myself, but that is the truth. In my sophomore year of college, I was 304 pounds! Why? I’d like to blame it on being Caribbean. Our food is so delicious, and we are naturally “big-boned,” as well (as our family would call it). Wrong! I was fat, I was obese, and I was not healthy. I honestly thank the Pandemic because when everything shut down, I was forced to deal with myself. I was forced to be still, and that is what my journey began. 

I joined a new, private gym in Dallas called Journey Fit. It’s a black-owned gym!!! A black woman owns it!!! That is when my journey began. The amount of love and support I received from the owner and the members was amazing. They wouldn’t allow me to quit even if I wanted to.

I joined the gym at 258 pounds. I am proud to say I now weigh 194 pounds. Even though I am not where I want to be, I am no longer where I was, and that alone gives me hope. This is only the beginning. I’d like to call 2020 the appetizer. 2021 is the main dish, Baby!

How did you change your eating habits?
I follow a plant-based diet and try my hardest to stay away from all naughty snacks.

What is your workout routine?
I work out with the trainers at the gym six days a week. On 2-3 of those days, I do 2x a day. 

What is your height?
I am 5’6″. SMALL BUT MIGHTY.

When did you start your journey?
I joined JOURNEY FIT on July 27, 2020. That is the day my life changed. Although I was trying to work out and eat clean before then, that’s the day I decided I was NEVER LOOKING BACK. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
NOT AT ALL. 100% hard work, early mornings, late nights, and discipline.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
Be patient and love yourself through the process. This is something I am still working on. 

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
My advice to black women who are trying to lose weight is to remain consistent and do it for YOU. Many of us are so willing to break our necks to make sure the people we care about are taken care of that we forget to take care of ourselves! We can not pour from an empty cup. 

Instagram: @ooh_uhatenene