Anisha lost 96 pounds

Weight Loss Transformation of the Day: Anisha lost 96 pounds. This amazing lady was determined to live her dreams of being a member of the US Army.  Having been overweight all of her life, she was not sure that she could meet the physical requirements. She changed her mindset, started running, taught herself about nutrition and was able to become a Soldier.  Here is what she shared with us about what she did to change her life…

Good morning, My name is Anisha T. and I’m from Vidalia, GA via FT. Bliss, TX. All my life, I had been overweight, but I knew deep down inside there was more to life and more that I wanted out of life.  Unfortunately, being overweight would never allow me to accomplish my dreams and goals. One of my biggest goals was to join the United States Army so that I could travel and live an adventurous life. However, that required being a certain weight or BMI for my height. I pushed my dreams aside because I didn’t think I’d ever be small enough to meet the weight requirement.

In 2010, at the age of 27 and weighing in at 240lbs (height: 5’4″and 1/2), I was tired of just living and knew I had do what was on the inside of me. I walked into an Army recruiting station and asked them what would it take to join. After they told me the requirements, I went out, bought a new pair of running shoes and never looked back. It was a very difficult process and I had to rethink the way I thought and felt about food. I had to teach myself how to eat, how to count calories and how food intake and exercise work together. I had to learn that weight loss is a lifestyle change, not just a diet plan. After two years of determination, sweat, tears, and rejection after rejection from the Army for not being small enough, I finally met the requirements to join! In 2012 at the age of 29 with 96 lbs of all natural weight loss achieved, I weighed in at 144 pounds and proudly became a U.S. Soldier. Life has been amazing and the struggle was well worth the fight!

Eating Habits and Exercise: I changed my habits by eating smaller and more healthier meals, four to six times a day. I cut back on breads, pastas, and sweets. Also, I cut out sodas and starting drinking water with flavor packets added. In terms of exercise, I started by teaching myself how to run until I was able to complete an entire 1.25 mile track and just kept going. I run anywhere from 1-6 miles day. I also do the stair climber machine, squats with weights and weight lifting at least 4 days a week and I take Zumba classes.

It’s been 5 years total since I changed my lifestyle and I’ve been able to maintain my current weight well. My advice to those who want to lose weight: set a goal and work towards it. No matter what, never give up, never give in. Just keep working and most importantly, believe in yourself! It doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks of you, what’s important is what God has placed in your heart and what you think of yourself. “All things are possible through Christ who strengthens me!!” Phil. 4:13

Instagram: @imjusttayy83