Mary lost 86 pounds

Mary lost 86 pounds. After giving birth to her 2nd daughter, she struggled physically and emotionally. Determined to get back on track and be a healthy role model for her daughters, she joined a local weight loss clinic for nutrition and exercise guidance. 

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up? 
I’m a 45 year old School Principal and mother of two. After having my second daughter, I struggled physically and emotionally to get myself back to me. Before being married and a mother of an infant and a toddler, I was a motivated full-time educator and part-time group aerobic instructor. 

Where I found myself in 2013 was unfamiliar and depressing. By 2015, I struggled with why I was not finding happiness or success in any facets of my life. As a school leader, I had succumbed to the pressures of leading a public school. As a mother, I did not feel I was the best role model for my girls because of my weight and unhealthy habits. As a wife, I felt physically unattractive and found it hard to show love. All of these feelings were swirling as I attempted every plan I could think of to lose weight. 

By 2019, while I was no longer where I had started in 2013 (275 pounds), I found myself doing this back and forth between 240-245 pounds. That was it. I had to do something different. I had been on this journey for six years, alone and really struggling. I wanted more for myself and definitely for my young girls. So, for my 44th birthday, I joined Medi-Weight Loss Clinic in Huntersville, NC. 

How did you change your eating habits?
Although I thought I knew everything I needed to know about proper nutrition and exercise, Medi taught me so much more about my relationship with food and taking care of myself. After the first two weeks, which were extraordinarily hard, I embraced the lower carb, higher protein way of eating. Medi is a medically based program, so the plans are specific to your needs. I quickly found that the weekly weigh-ins helped me stay the course and understand what effects certain foods had on my progress—understanding my body’s composition of water, muscle, organs, fat, and how what I eat and how I exercise impacts everything has been a game-changer.

What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?
I have always loved group exercises, like Socafit USA with Keisha Bridgeman and Zumba classes with J9ne Fit led by Janean Benton. After getting my nutrition and weekly schedule together, I was able to commit to two days of group exercise and one-two days of in-home workouts with the FitOn App. When the weather is good, I’m outside “wogging” (walking & jogging) for miles. I incorporate weights in my at-home workouts, which helps with fat loss and toning. 

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
Starting weight: 275 pounds (2013) 
Current weight: 189 pounds
Goal weight: 180 pounds

What is your height?
5’9″

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I officially started this journey in 2013 but ramped up my commitments AND self-work in Sept 2019.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I have learned is that being physically unhealthy and obese was a symptom of internal issues that I had and continue to have to address. I had to face some ugly truths about myself and be willing to deal with myself. There was NOT one external motivator greater than ME. I also had to be willing to let some people and things go that no longer serve me and my journey. 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
If weight loss were just about calories in and calories out, everyone would be successful in losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight. The truth is it is NOT that simple. There is psychological and emotional work that must be done to reach your goals. Find what works for you, and don’t be afraid to seek help. You are more than worth it!

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey? 
I have not had any weight loss surgeries, BUT I would love to have a tummy tuck in the future.

Instagram: @makingmaryb