Lexi lost 17 pounds. She was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder and faced terrible symptoms. She decided to take her health back and with healthy food and fitness. She also studied to become a certified personal trainer. Check out her story.
What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going when you wanted to give up?
When I was 21 years old, I got into working out. It was a great way to relax and relieve stress. I lost weight as a result, but more importantly, I felt great. Then, I got sick.
At the time of my before picture, I’d recently been diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder. I was 23 years old at the time, and I felt horrible. I was fatigued, and I couldn’t sleep. My skin would burn when I sweat. I remembered how I used to feel when I was healthy, and I wanted that feeling back. When I wanted to give up, I remembered that I did this before so I knew I could do it. I just had to decide to take action and make choices that supported my goal.
How did you change your eating habits?
I did not change my eating habits much. I believe in moderation. I just focused on eating more fruits and veggies and less junk food. I tried to eat a bigger meal at breakfast or lunch, so I would have enough energy to work out. I ate smaller meals at dinner before bed.
What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you workout?
During the time I was sick, I studied personal training manuals so that when I was able to work out again, I could do what was best for my body. Eventually, I took the exam, became certified as a personal trainer, and created my own specific plan. I started by focusing on consistency and building up my endurance. Then, I switched to building muscle and losing fat.
At first, I aimed to work out 2-3 times a week just to build the habit. As I started feeling better, I increased it to 3-4 times a week. I would do total-body workouts, and for cardio, I used the elliptical. There was no real regime for the first year. I just wanted to get to the gym.
What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
I started around 189 pounds, and now I weigh 172 pounds.
What is your height?
5′ 7″.
When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I began in July 2017. This journey happened over the course of two years. Considering I had to deal with being sick and working with doctors to figure how to get stable, I am okay with that time frame. As I mentioned earlier, during the first year, there was no real regime. I just wanted to get active. That first year was more of a mental transformation than a physical one.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
Fitness goals are never just about the weight. The mental aspect is the challenging part. Deciding to commit to bettering yourself and making choices that support your goals is the real challenge.
What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
You are worth the time and energy it takes. Go slow. For a lasting physical transformation, your mind has to transform too.
Instagram: @the_lady_Lexi
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