Charlena lost 80 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Charlena lost 80 pounds. After losing her mother to cancer, she decided it was time to change her lifestyle. She cut back on unhealthy foods, committed to her workout routine, and focused on health. This was her second transformation journey, so she knew that she could reach her goals.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My motivation came after losing my mother to cancer. Before she died, I gained a lot of weight back, and I wanted to lose it badly. I wanted to give up because I was grieving, and I found comfort in food. I knew that my bad habits and the food I was eating were killing me. She lost her battle with cancer in November 2020, and I knew she did want me to give up.

How did you change your eating habits?
I didn’t use a specific plan to lose weight. Instead, I cut back my portions and cut out soda completely. I also cut back on bread and started eating a lot of fruit. In addition, water became life. 

What did your workout routine consist of? How many days a week did you work out?
I definitely worked out more than anything. I worked out 5 to 7 times a week, sometimes twice a day. 

I was determined to get the weight off and keep it off for good this time. I lost 57+ pounds and then gained it all back in the past. I was very disappointed in myself. But, I worked so hard the first time, and I knew I could do it again. 

I did a lot of YouTube workout videos at home, and my husband bought me an elliptical machine. That was a game-changer because I could work out whenever I wanted. 

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 235 pounds, and now I weigh 155 pounds. 

What is your height?
I am 5’3″, so of course, I look heavier because of my height. 

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started in January 2021, and it has been a year. I have lost 80lbs!! 

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
Although this is my second time around the weight loss block, I learned that it is ok to start over. Also, I really do feel like I have learned only to eat when I’m hungry. Food was life, but now health is life! 

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
My advice is just like everyone else’s: Don’t give up. Make time to be healthier if it is important to you. Don’t make excuses. You can’t cheat the process. Lastly, celebrate the small successes when you lose weight, and it will keep you going!!