Michelle lost 54 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Michelle lost 54 pounds. After having two sons via C-section, she didn’t recognize herself. Feeling like she’d let herself go, this Chef decided it was time to address her binge eating/overeating. She also joined an accountability group for help and support during her journey.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
For my entire life, I wanted to lose weight, but it always seemed impossible. I worked for results, but they never lasted! It was okay for me to be a thick girl because I was still happy and confident in my body.

Having two small children less than two years apart definitely helped motivate me. After I had our two boys via C-section, I didn’t recognize myself anymore. I weighed 252 pounds. I’d let myself go and was in constant pain. I could barely get out of bed. I wanted to be the Michelle I used to be, and I wanted to have fun. I wanted to be able to play with my sons.

Once I finally got started, my accountability group is what kept me inspired. Once I realized that I wasn’t alone and other women are on a similar journey, it made everything better. I was so afraid to ask for help. When I asked, and when I accepted that help, I was finally able to stick to my new lifestyle!

How did you change your eating habits?
I was a terrible binge eater. The more food I ate, the happier I was… until I finished that last bite and couldn’t move. I am a Chef, so I was eating regular foods, but overeating was my problem. It was even harder to accept what I did to my body because I was cooking the food myself.

I have been following a nutrition plan to keep my goals in check. It is designed just for me, so I can eat the foods I love while still enjoying my wine and potato chips.

What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?
I followed trainers virtually. I completed different programs that are specifically set up to help me reach my goals. My workouts were always planned out according to what area I wanted to tackle.

I made time for me. I stayed up late after work or got up early before the kids. I made myself a priority. I work out 5 or 6 days a week, and I always take my rest day. I found it helps keep the body going.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
When I started, I weighed 252 pounds, and now I weigh 189 pounds.

What is your height?
I am 5’4″.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started my journey on Jan 2, 2017. It took eight months to transform.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No weight loss surgery. All-natural weight loss.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I have learned is that it will never stick if you’re looking for the “quick fix.” Once you put in real work by staying active and getting the proper nutrition that works with your body, the results will never fade.

Also, allowing people to help motivate and inspire you is the best way to keep going. We all can pat ourselves on the back, but for others to recognize our growth and see us change is that much better.

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
STOP DOUBTING YOURSELF. Don’t allow yourself to stay stuck in a body you don’t want to be in because you’re afraid or think you won’t succeed. Invest in your health seriously and stop looking for the quick fix.
Instagram: @michelle_severe
Website: Herteamfit.com