Latarsha lost 155 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Latarsha lost 155 pounds. Over several years, this 5-foot tall dynamo released the weight by focusing on fitness and transitioning to vegetarianism. She didn’t rush things. By taking it one step at a time, she’s kept the pounds off for more than 10 years. 

When did you start your journey?
I started my weight loss journey years ago when my baby was about two years old. I had been heavy all my life, from the time I was a little girl. I was teased to no end at school and by family members. When I had my baby, I weighed 290 pounds at 5 feet tall. 

I started my journey by giving up small things, like soda and candy. I also began to walk for exercise because that was all I could do. As I progressed, I was able to do more and more. As I built endurance, I started taking kickboxing classes, step classes, and all kinds of workouts to stay motivated.

I became a vegetarian in 2009, and that’s when I dropped the most weight. Now I try all kinds of workouts because that helps to keep me motivated. I’ve kept the weight off for at least 15 years, and I’m always working on my fitness!

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
It was 1999 when my baby turned two years old, and I weighed 295 pounds at the time. I was pretty uncomfortable, so I started to change step by step. My doctor recommended surgery, but I wanted to do it on my own. Even though I lost weight progressively, I lost most of it over the course of five years.

Now, it’s 2020, and I haven’t put back on any of my original weight. I weigh 140 pounds.

What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
Just knowing how hard it was to get these results and how much better I feel now.

What did you stop or start eating as you transitioned to being a vegetarian? 
My first significant habit change was to stop drinking sodas. Then, I replaced meat with tuna for three months before I transitioned out of meat altogether. I also cut out all sweets and did not overeat fruit.

How often did you workout?
I work out five days a week doing three long workouts and two 45 minute workouts.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson I learned is there is no easy way. I have to work at it every day and remember the hard work it took to get here.

What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
My best advice;

• Start now. 
• Never say, “Oh, it’s just 1 or 5 pounds I put back on.” Get on it right away. 
• Never think of this journey as a diet. Think of it as a lifestyle instead.
•  Every day is a new start.

Instagram: @LatarshaHayes2