Monique lost more than 180 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Monique lost 180+ pounds, down from over 400lbs. This mom was tired of uncomfortable experiences, like having to act like she didn’t like theme park rides because she couldn’t fit them. She decided to have the Gastric Sleeve procedure and let go of unhealthy habits to transform her health. Check out her journey.

I have been on my weight loss journey for about 20 months now, after having Vertical Gastric Sleeve (VSG) surgery in 04/2017. My highest weight was 400+ pounds. On my surgery day, I weighed 366 pounds, and I currently weigh 220 pounds. (height: 5’6″) I’m down over 180lbs.

I recently hit a stall and started working out more. I was hoping you could share my story because your followers are so encouraging and supportive. I could really use that energy to keep me motivated. My boyfriend was my main supporter, but we recently broke up so having your community out behind me would mean the world.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I always knew that I was big, but it was the experience of an uncomfortable plane ride and my daughter that made me realize that I was out of control big! My daughter was getting older, and I couldn’t keep up. I would take her to theme parks, for example, and have to pretend to hate the rides when in reality I knew that I was too big to fit on them. I just wanted to spare us both the embarrassment. When I want to give up, I think about all of the adventures that we missed together and all of the ones we will have as I get healthier.

How did you change your eating habits?
After a decade of yoyo dieting and remaining in the 360-400lb range, I opted for VSG. After surgery, I replaced all drinks with water (I had a bad Pepsi habit) and treated anything breaded as my ENEMY. When I hit a stall during fall/winter of 2018, I used CrossFit and a stricter diet to break the stall. Currently, I follow a Keto diet. The pounds are finally shedding again.

What did your workout routine consist of?
In the beginning, I only walked for exercise. Once I hit a stall, I turned to CrossFit, which is based on combinations of weights and cardio. Now I am focusing more on weights so that I can tone as I lose. I plan on taking fun dance or Zumba type classes soon. I have only been working out about twice per week. My biggest goal for 2019 is to kick that up to 5-6 times per week

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
That I’m human and a bad day doesn’t mean the end of my journey. Also, the weight wasn’t gained nor will it be lost overnight.

What advice do you have for other women who want to lose weight?
Surround yourself with people who will encourage you. Make realistic goals and crush them. Don’t compare your progress to anyone else’s because every journey is different. Be your own competition.

Instagram: @meaux_paused