Cecil lost 62 pounds

Cecil lost 62 pounds by going low carb and working out. She began her journey in Jan 2020 as a new year’s resolution because she wanted to become healthier mentally, emotionally, and physically. During her transformation, she became a Certified Xtreme Hip Hop Instructor.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My motivation was to become healthier mentally, emotionally, and physically. In the beginning, I focused more on the mental health benefits. This was my “me time,” time for me to focus on myself. It was my time to unwind from the day-to-day chaos. 

My emotional and mental health begin to feel better. Then I started to notice weight loss, which ultimately kept me going. I felt accomplished by learning new routines, working out longer, not being fatigued so quickly, etc. 

How did you change your eating habits?
I changed my eating habits by reducing the amount of bad carbs I ate. I removed bread, sugar, pasta, rice, etc. from my diet. I won’t say I did Keto or Atkins, but I drastically removed the amount of carbs I ate daily. Instead of bread, I would have a low-carb tortilla wrap or a hamburger with a lettuce wrap. I ate a ton of salads, but I would switch up the toppings (chicken, steak, turkey, shrimp). I also ate more fruits and vegetables. I try to balance my meals, having protein with veggies and healthy fats.

What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?
My workout routine consists mainly of cardio. I enjoy walking, jump roping, bike riding, and Xtreme Hip Hop. I occasionally do weight lifting to add variety. When the pandemic hit in March 2020, I decided to come out on the other side of the pandemic healthier. 

I begin doing Xtreme Hip Hop 3-4 days a week for 30 minutes. Gradually, I increased the time to 45 minutes. (Eventually increasing my time to 60 minutes.) In August 2020, I decided to become a Certified Xtreme Hip Hop Instructor. I want to inspire, motivate and encourage others. I want to let them know you don’t have to be your perfect weight or size to be a fitness instructor. 

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight in December 2019 was 257 pounds. My highest weight ever, higher than both of my pregnancies. My current weight is 195 pounds. My goal is to lose 15 more lbs while toning my body. 

What is your height?
My height is 5’3″

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
My “Aha” moment came to me at my doctor’s appt. in December 2019. I realized I had to do something, and I had to do it NOW! I started my weight loss journey as a New Year Resolution Jan. 2020. I initially started by focusing on food. I didn’t incorporate exercise until April 2020.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, weight loss surgery is not a part of my journey. I did contemplate having surgery, but I was afraid. I figured I would give myself one more chance to figure this out before going that route.  

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is, “You can do ANYTHING you put your mind to.” A lot of times, it’s not about the foods you eat or don’t eat. Losing weight is as much a mental thing as a physical thing. 

I’ve struggled with anxiety for ten years, and I believe my weight fluctuation had a lot to do with my mental health. Incorporating exercise seems to help reduce and control my anxiety. So even when I didn’t notice the scale moving, I continued because I knew there were other benefits that I was experiencing. 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
I would say figure out what works for you. Don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Make a plan and stick to it. There will be tough days but stay focus. It’s all about a choice. What others (family members) are eating is not your business, lol.

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