Kristyna lost 44 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Kristyna lost 44 pounds with healthy food and exercise. This mother of five and a grandmother of one wanted to feel good, look good, and be there for her family for years to come. Walking is a big part of her workout routine.

Social Media:
Kristyna Cornell on Facebook 

What was your inspiration? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I had been trying on and off for years, but my motivation this time was my 41st birthday. I was going on a birthday trip and wanted to feel good and look good. Since that birthday has come and gone, my current motivation has been not to return to where I was. 

I’m loving the results and refuse to go backward. My husband and I have five children and now a grandson. I want to be healthy and live a long life to be here with my family. My mother passed at a young age, and I was terrified that would be my fate as well. 

How did you change your eating habits?
I began with Keto. I did that for about six months. Then, I transitioned into being in a calorie deficit. I didn’t think Keto was something I could maintain long-term. It’s been pretty easy for me to count calories and stick to it using a calorie calculator/app. 

At first, I stayed away from fast food, junk food, and carbs. Now I eat whole grains, fruits, and lots of vegetables. I have my favorite cookie or sandwich every once in awhile so that I’m not completely depriving myself. I plan my meals and focus on not overeating and not snacking. I also drink lots of water. 

What is your workout routine?
I walk. I have a walking pad that I use for about 30 minutes a day, usually during my lunch hour. I also walk around my neighborhood during the warmer months. I do some YouTube strength training workout videos using small weights, but I mostly walk. My goal is at least 7000 steps a day. 

How often did you work out?
About five days a week.

What was your starting weight? 250 pounds

What is your current weight? 206 pounds

What is your height? I’m 5’4″.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I began in May 2023, and it took about six months. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
I learned that I needed to know why I had gained so much weight in the first place in order to lose it and keep it off. I’m an emotional eater, and I had to get control over that to stick to my new routine. 

I also learned that I needed to know what worked for ME. I found a healthy way to lose weight and live a new lifestyle instead of trying a diet I could never realistically stick to. 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Keep trying. Even if you slip up, start over and keep going. Work on your mental health. Talk to a therapist, read books, or do whatever you need to figure out why your weight got to where it is. Address those things, and you will be able to be consistent and eventually see long-term results. Also, do not compare yourself to other people. What worked for them may not work for you. Because it was their time to lose weight, it doesn’t mean it’s your time. Your time will come when you’re ready physically and mentally.