Transformation of the Day: Jessica lost 66 pounds. She lost 105 lbs and kept the weight off. Then, she got pregnant with her daughter and regained more than half of the weight she lost. By working out at home and switching up her eating and drinking habits, she got back on track.
I was featured on your website before for my 105 lbs weight loss journey. I kept the weight off for a long time but lost control when I got pregnant with my daughter. I gained 65 lbs! Now, I am happy to say that I have lost all the baby weight and am continuing my journey of health. I wanted to give an official update.
What was your motivation for this phase of your journey? What inspired you when you wanted to give up?
My motivation has been getting to a better place, not just physically but mentally. I cannot be the mother I would like to be if I am not in a good mental place. Working out and eating healthy allows me the “self-therapy” I need to be the best version of Mommy.
How did you change your eating habits?
When I was pregnant, I ate ALL of the carbs, especially at night. It was like I was storing food for hibernation! I gave in to every craving instead of stopping and having water. Most of the time, I was probably thirsty, not hungry!
I started my postpartum journey as a Beachbody coach. I lost 105 lbs before the baby, so I knew what to do. After the baby, I began to coach myself, and I made water and eating lots of veggies non-negotiable.
I followed a nutrition program called 2B Mindset by Ilana Mulstein. She is a new addition to the Beachbody team and has come up with a nutrition program that is incredible (with an emphasis on veggies and water).
Tell us about your workout routine.
I honestly worked out 6-7 times a week! Even my yoga days are something. I followed several different workout programs offered by Beachbody one after the other. I started with just 30 min a day, seven days a week, with two active rest days. Every morning, I woke up at 4 AM. Before I had to mommy and wife it up, I self-loved it up. I still wake up at 4 AM to work out!
I did the 21 Day Fix program and 21 Day Fix Extreme. I followed those up with the 100 Morning Meltdown. Recently I finished The Prep and The Work programs. Currently, I am doing a new Beachbody program called 10 Rounds. I find no matter what program I am doing, discipline and consistency are what matters. I coach accountability groups, which really helps me stay on top of my game.
I also used my Pelotón equipment! I have the spin bike and treadmill. I use them about five times a week.
What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 225 pounds, and my current weight is 159.4 pounds.
What is your height?
5’5″
When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
May 2019 and counting. It’s been 11 months since I officially started my postpartum journey. It took me about a year to lose 105 lbs the first time I was on a weight loss journey.
Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No surgery
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
“Me time” is essential. It allows me to be a better everything to everyone. Self-love isn’t selfish!
What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
Do not give up. Make yourself a non-negotiable. You don’t cancel meetings with your boss, so don’t cancel your workout sessions with yourself.
Instagram: @Jessica.Menardy
Disclaimer: Reference or link to any specific product, diet plan, exercise plan or service mentioned in the weight loss stories we share is for the information of our readers, and does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Black Women Losing Weight.
CC says
Thank you for sharing so motivating.
Ursula says
You are right when you said, you show up for meetings so show up for yourself. Self love works for me! Thanks for sharing
Kimberly Mitchell says
Awesome ♥️