Tamara lost 51 pounds

Today’s Success Story: Tamara lost 51 pounds.  She wanted to avoid a family history of weight-related illness and eat in a way that better supported her overall health. She found success in a supportive workout group and changed her eating habits to melt away the pounds.  Here is what she share with us about her weight loss journey:

My motivation was the fact that as an African American, we are known to have high rates of diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. These ailments all run on both sides of my family and I didn’t just want to be another statistic. I also have just one kidney so my health is very important to me.

Now, my eating habits are better than they were prior to working out. I’m eating less carbs, fewer sweets, having smaller portions and I’ve increased my water intake tremendously! Hydrating is a must! The changes in my eating habits include mainly eating chicken, fish, and shrimp. I decreased my beef intake and stopped eating as much fast food. I began eating more home cooked meals. Food preparation helps with the discipline on eating right, because if you have a plan, it’s easier to attain a goal. I increased my fruit and vegetable intake as well. Fresh fruit helps me tremendously for those “sweet cravings” being that I’m one that loves sweets, lol. From time to time, I’ll do a week long cleanse with just fruits and veggies, adding carbs (cup or rice) or fish on the last two days.

I attend TNT BODY CAMP here in Shreveport, La where Tarrant Graham is the owner, trainer, motivator, etc.  This camp was a major part of my change. I attend 3 to 4 classes per week (He offers 10/week). In the classes we do cardio, weight training, resistance bands, medicine balls, low hurdles, bars, obstacle courses, tires and body weight exercise for resistance. Most importantly we motivate one another to keep pushing when we see someone ready to give up! My starting weight was 247 pounds in May 2013 and I am currently 196 pounds as of  Aug 11, 2014 (I’m 5’7″). It took about a year to lose the weight  because my eating habits were not the best, but I strived to improve daily! My advice to others is that change first starts from within. You have to want to change in order to see change. Then, you have to work on your eating habits (which is a daily struggle). Lastly, you have to commit to exercise. Consistency and Self discipline are 2 key factors when you want to see change. Surround yourself with people who have to same goals, someone who will encourage you to keep pushing.

Instagram: @tamarad_thatsme