Transformation of the Day: Cheyenne lost 40 pounds. At 18 years old, she was dealing with her insecurities and the stress of being a freshman in college. Some self investigation led to a doctor’s visit where she was told that she was at risk for Type 2 Diabetes. That was her wakeup call. Check out how she took action to release the weight.
Height:5’4″
Start: 185 pounds
Current:145-150 pounds
I started my journey at 18 years old. Transitioning to college and being alone for the first time was stressful. I would purposefully attend early morning or late night classes to avoid seeing people on campus because how insecure I was. If I was not on campus, I was locked away in my apartment.
I remember making a list of what I liked about my body and what I did not like. I remember just putting three things on the “like” list. How much was on the “did not like” list? I could not tell you because the list was that long. As I cried and stared at the list, I decided it was time to make a change. Within the week, I visited my doctor. He said that based upon my evaluation he was in fear if me developing Type 2 Diabetes (especially since it runs on both dies of my family). That reality check was all I need to make the change.
My goal at the time was to be confident enough with my body to one day wear a bikini on Miami beach (silly I know), but it’s a dream I’ve always had, Within a year I lost 40 pounds and I have maintained my weight of 145 pounds. I am still on a journey to a healthier me. It’s a lifestyle. I am constantly looking for ways to better myself and remain healthy.
How did you change your eating habits?
I replaced my daily morning coffee with tea (no sugar). I love my coffee very sweet and I found that I could decrease a lot of my sugar intake by just cutting out coffee completely. However, I allow myself to have a cup of coffee on Fridays.
My morning meals are smoothies. My fave recipe: coconut water, blueberries, strawberries, banana, kale or spinach, greek yogurt, and herbalife smoothie mix). I eat blackberries and mangoes every day. They’re just my favorite fruits.
I believe in lifestyle changes, not dieting, so if I got tempted (by a brownie for example) I’d cut it in half. Whatever temptation I have, I cut it in half.
I do not eat past 8pm and I follow every meal with tea to keep my metabolism moving (preferably green tea and ginger tea) I rarely drink fluids other than water unless it’s my cheat day. Soda was
always a temptation for me so to get my “fix” I drink sparkling water instead.
I also became a Herbalife coach and use their products as well. Once a month, I go on fruit and water cleanses.
What does your workout routine look like?
I workout 5-6 times a week. Since I used to participate in sports, I love variety in my workouts. Plyometrics and intervals are always part of my routine. I never shy away from long distance cardio (as far as 9miles) or lifting heavy. I also try to participate in as many themed 5ks as possible. I enjoy exercising outside since the environment offers its own challenges. Sprinting dirt hills for example is a great way to build lean muscles. I post short vids of my workouts on my page.
When did you start your journey?
My journey started in August 2012. I reached my goal weight in June 2013 and I’ve been maintaining my weight since then
What advice would you share with other people who want to lose weight?
Be patient with yourself. Often we set these drastic goals with such little time frames attached and put so much pressure on ourselves. It’s a lifestyle change… keyword “lifestyle”. You’ll constantly get better. Yes, your weight will fluctuate, but you’ll reach that goal. Trust YOUR process and YOUR journey, not
someone else’s. It takes time and trial and error to create a firm foundation that will not only help you reach your goal, but maintain it!
Instagram: @chyashley
Comment Via Facebook