Clarissa lost lover 268 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Clarissa lost over 268 pounds. Her motivation: The fear of not being able to be an active mom for her son. She took action and changed her life with weight loss surgery, portion control, Zumba, and other helpful tools. Now, she helps other women on their health and wellness journeys.

Social Media:
Facebook and YouTube: Clarissa Young
Instagram: @Clarissayoung85
Amazon: “Finding Acceptable Balance- To change the scale is to change your mind.” by Clarissa Young
“90-Day FAB Transformation Program”

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I was terrified of being unable to be active in my son’s life. I weighed 515 pounds and was imprisoned in my own body. 

For as far back as I can remember, I wanted to have kids. I wanted kids that I could love and who would love me back. I didn’t see my son loving a mom who was not active in his life. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?

• Gastric Sleeve – Feb 2012
• Tummy Tuck – Jan 2022

How did you change your eating habits?
My journey started with me preparing for the gastric sleeve surgery. I learned portion control, how to read nutritional labels, and how to swap foods. (Example: I swapped spaghetti squash for pasta) I don’t believe in telling myself I can’t eat certain foods, but I strongly believe in portion control. 

What is your workout routine?
I love Zumba. Before Zumba, I thought I was lazy. I would start a workout routine and quit within a week. Many people would say to walk, but I have bone on bone arthritis so walking hurts.  

But Zumba! I get lost in the music. I go about 3-4 times during a good week. I do yoga about once a week.

I’m also a “Chair Cardio” Instructor. I love modified movement for those with injuries, ongoing health conditions, or new to fitness.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?

• Highest weight: 515 pounds
• Starting weight: 485 pounds
• Lightest weight: 212 pounds
• Current weight: 247 pounds
• Goal weight: 199 pounds

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
This is a lifestyle change for me. I have noticed that the closer I am to maintenance, the more work I have to do to retain my success. We must make changes we are willing to make part of life. This has been a 12-year journey for me.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
When I needed to lose 300 pounds, I thought it was easier for others to buckle down and lose 40 pounds or so. However, we all have to work hard to be healthy. 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight? 
Start today. There will always be a party, family problems, and the in-between. 

Give yourself grace. We all go up and down on this journey. 

Get you some type of accountability system. We all have moments when we lack motivation and need that extra encouragement.