Transformation of the Day: Crystal lost 75+ pounds. After giving birth to her 3rd son via c-section, she had a ventral hernia and sepsis. This experience led to depression and weight gain. In 2019, she restarted her transformation journey. By working out at home and following the nutrition guidance from her trainers, she has transformed.
What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I was diagnosed as pre-diabetic in February 2012, at the age of 28. I started my journey in March 2012. I did not want to be on medication for the rest of my life. At the time, I had two sons and a husband. I knew I wanted to live life and live it more abundantly. I lost 95 pounds naturally from 2012-2015. (2012: 283 pounds 2015: 188 pounds)
Then I got pregnant with my third son in late 2015. I suffered from depression after his birth after experiencing a ventral hernia and sepsis after my c-section delivery. I gained 85 pounds from 2016 -2019 due to depression. I restarted my journey again in August 2019, and I’ve lost 75 pounds since then!
How did you change your eating habits?
I hired a personal trainer. I believe in personal training because it holds you accountable. Have a trainer also helps people who lack motivation from time to time during their journey. I had no clue how to lose weight or how nutrition plays a crucial role in the process. My trainers (I’ve had five throughout my journey) created meal plans for me that consisted of 5-6 small meals a day. These plans included all food groups, but they focused on portion control.
What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?
I work out five days a week. All my workouts are done at home virtually following my trainer @TrainwithTrina. I use hand weights and body weight for resistance, and I do floor exercises.
What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight in 2012 was 283 pounds. My starting weight in 2019 was 273 pounds. My current weight is 198 pounds.
What is your height?
5’4″
Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
I did not have weight loss surgery during my weight loss journey. I had a tummy tuck as part of my hernia repair in October 2020. Best decision ever! Diet and exercise got me here!
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
To keep going! No matter how much you mess up, never give up on yourself! You have the choice to choose a better food option for your next meal. Tomorrow is a new day, and yesterday does not matter. Get yo butt up, and get moving!
What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Just start! Hire a trainer if you can afford one. If you can’t, start adding more veggies to your meals and swap out the bad carbs for healthier ones.
Make fitness fun and incorporate it into your lifestyle daily! YouTube has a wealth of videos to choose from! Calisthenics is one of the best forms of exercise to help you along your journey.
Instagram: @MrsAdams828
Natricia Bennett says
I am on a journey to lose weight and it has been very hard for me due to knees. I have very bad knee pain in both knees. I was wondering what is the best way to lose weight with exercise with out my knees hurting to bad. And what is the best food to eat and smoothies. I am 269 at 4’11 and this weight is miserable. I gained weight after having my 4th child and he is 25 now. It led me depression and I also ate to much. I am still suffering with depression and anxiety really bad at times. So bad I have to take medicine. I have no energy and no enthusiasm most of the time. I don’t want to do anything most of the time but lay in my bed. I am getting ready to go through a divorce at this time and I don’t know how this will effect me. But I have no other choice it’s over. So I really need a lot of help to get on my journey to success. I hope there is someone that can help me . Thanks In advance!!!
Teresa says
The first step is asking for help, the next is doing something about it, now that you know you need help get to it. You must see a therapist, your issues are killing you emotionally, physically, spiritual and mentally. Been there I’m not an expert but here’s my thoughts. Therapy, meditation, portion control “see a nutritionist “, prayer, surround yourself with family and friends who love you and care about your well-being, journal your journey, drink ONLY water, take long hot baths, and walk just ten minutes in the sun or just sit in it and practice breathing exercises. Life is not easy but we have a tendency to make it harder, now you have the power to change that. Also you are the only person responsible for your happiness. Love you girl, never give up.
Esther says
Cycling and swimming are good for knee issues
Shondell says
Wonderful Job!!!