Essence lost 29 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Essence shares how she lost 29 pounds this year. No longer happy with what she saw in the mirror, she used a combination of tools, including intermittent fasting, weight lifting, and at-home workouts, to get results.  

Social Media:
Instagram: @essenceknowsit
TikTok: essenceknowsit 

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My motivation was seeing photos of myself. I didn’t like what I saw. I began to follow people and social media pages dedicated to losing weight and becoming healthy. It’s inspiring to see the stories of other women who are still on their journeys and seeing women who were close to my size and witnessing their progress. 

How did you change your eating habits?
I started intermittent fasting (16:8) and meal prepping. I removed all junk food from my house and drank mostly water. I ate smaller portions and found substitutions for certain foods (Ex, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream). 

I didn’t use any particular program. Initially, I cut out all carbs, then slowly incorporated them back into my diet, but I watch how often I consume them. I did not count calories, as I’ve tried that in the past, and it never worked for me. I also have a food scale. 

What is your workout routine?
I work out for an hour at the gym or 30-45 minutes at home. In the beginning all I did was cardio. Later, I incorporated weightlifting into my routine. I switch it up so I don’t get bored. 

How often did you work out?
I work out 4-5 days a week. Even if I don’t go to the gym, I work out at home. 

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 220 pounds, and my current weight is 191 pounds. My ultimate goal is to be between 160-175 lbs. I wish I had kept track of my inches, but I can see a difference in how my clothes fit. 

What is your height?
I’m 5’2″.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I began in March 2023 – six months and counting. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, I have not had weight loss surgery or procedures. I haven taken any supplements or injections.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
Consistency is key even when you don’t see results right away. 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Keep a positive attitude and remain consistent. The days you don’t feel like working out are when you should be the most committed. Follow social media pages that you find inspiring. Find low-carb, high-protein recipes.