Weight Loss Story of the Day: Dr. Kendra lost 60 pounds. While working long hours and pursuing her doctorate degree, extra pounds crept in. After learning that her blood pressure had reached a point where she would need medication, she decided that it was time for “metamorphosis”. Now, she is a fitness instructor helping others to transform. Check out what she shared with us about her journey.
What was your motivation?
I was motivated after going to the doctor and receiving the news that I had gained 40 pounds, that my blood pressure was elevated to a dangerous level and that medicine would be necessary to regulate it. I was terrified. The doctor asked me one question, “What’s got you STRESSED.” At the time, I was working demanding hours in corporate America, pursuing a doctoral degree, and heavily engaged in ministry. I had seemly allowed my fitness regime to diminish over 4 years while I was in school. The conversation with my physician reignited my fire to WORKOUT and monitor my food intake. I started the metamorphosis process that day!
Since I was no stranger to fitness and the principals of healthy living, I simply refocused and went back to the basics! I did not want to be on blood pressure medication, so improving my quality of life through maintaining a healthy diet and getting reacquainted with my fitness regimen was no longer an option. Not to mention graduating with my doctoral degree, I wanted to be in the best shape of my life!
How did you change your eating habits?
I don’t diet but I do eat in moderation. Instead of eating on a 12 inch dinner plate, I normally eat on a 9 inch plate. I stick to eating 5-6 meals a day. I added in new challenges such as Meatless Monday as a way to detox from the weekend. I also limit fried foods, salty foods, and junk foods. I limit the amount of times I eat out in a week. I try with every effort to avoid eating after 7pm.
- I incorporated more smoothes into my diet.
- I increased my fruit and vegetable intake.
- I do not keep soda or junk food in the house.
What did your workout routines look like?
- Zumba Fitness
- R.I.P.P.E.D
- Strength Training
- Walking and Running
I work out 5-7 days a week using a variety of these workouts to challenge my body
What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 240 pounds and currently I weight 180 pounds. Height: 5’8″ tall.
How long did your transformation take?
I believe in the slim slow process, no binge diets or gimmicks. My weight loss process took a total of 2 years. I have maintained the weight loss for 2 years. Total journey: 4 years. I also wanted to continue to educate my African American community to get healthy and fit. I not only became a licensed Zumba instructor and certified with R.I.P.P.E.D, but I launched Kingdom Fitness which has been a valuable asset to my community!
What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
First, I would advise any person seeking to lose weight to find a program that they not only like but also one that has a built-in support system. Support forges accountability, new friendships and fitness camaraderie, which is invaluable. Second, I would advise you to take it one day at a time. Fitness is not a race, it’s a journey what doesn’t require perfection but progress. Third, don’t beat yourself up and give time, time! Fourth, maintain your consistency, make a date with your gym or fitness group. Fifth, have fun by trying new foods, new workouts, and making new friends!
Facebook fitness page: Kingdom Fitness by Dr. K
Instagram: @KingdomFitness_DrK
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