Transformation of the Day: Kimberly lost 86.6 pounds. After battling her weight for years, she decided to transform her lifestyle to avoid weight related illnesses. Going low carb and finding a true affinity for fitness led to great results. She even became a Zumba instructor. Check out her journey.
Starting weight: 330 pounds
Current weight: 243.4 pounds
Goal weight: 190 pounds
Height? 5’8
As a child, I was always on the heavier side. It wasn’t until I was in college that I chose to do something about it. Suffering from an eating disorder, I basically stopped eating and did a lot of running… Literally. The weight did come off, but a year later the weight returned and doubled.
In 2011, I weighed 330 pounds. I looked at pictures from a vacation and thought, “Ok Kim, It is time to get serious about this weight.” I refused to battle with weight-related illnesses at the young age of 27. I started taking Zumba and utilizing the cardio equipment in the gym. I saw the weight melt off. I’ve made some friends along the way and dropped more than 80 pounds.
I became a certified Zumba instructor in 2014, and I’ve been teaching at a local gym ever since. I’ve refocused my energy on helping people achieve their goals. Currently, I am one of the CEO’s of Thickfit Da Movement; a motivational group empowering real women with bodies on real journeys. I am not where I want to be, but I am in a better place healthwise.
When did you start your journey?
September 2011
How did you change your eating habits?
I started with My Fitness Pal. I tracked everything I ate. I embraced a low carb diet and limited bread, potatoes and fried foods from my diet. I also gave up beef. I also found smarter ways to enjoy sweet treats, such as enjoying sugar-free snacks and using sugar substitutes.
What did your workout routine look like?
I usually work out 3-5 days a week. I work multiple jobs, and my schedule prevented me from spending hours in the gym. I embraced Zumba, Mixxedfit, HIIT and other fun exercises. I would spend about an hour in the gym doing something I love that’s also effective.
What inspires you to keep going when times get tough?
I love inspiring others and leading by example. I know that people are watching me, so I make a point to be the best example I can be. Also, I want to be the best version of myself. I want to make sure that I work to avoid any weight-related diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that I am a real woman with a real life, and that I am not perfect. I understand that I may have some setbacks, but as long as I keep moving, I will forever be in the race.
What advice do you have for other women who want to lose weight?
Love yourself first. Before you start any workout or diet program, you should love who you are, regardless of your imperfections. Know that improving your health will only add icing to the cake.
Instagram: @Prettythickfitchick
Shaneka says
Thank you for sharing your story! 💕