Transformation of the Day: Nena shares how she lost 171 pounds by meal prepping and exercising. Her wake-up call came when her father passed away in 2018. She realized that as a single parent, she needed to prioritize her health to be there for her children for years to come. Now, she is a fitness instructor.
Social Media:
You can follow me on Facebook at Dance2fit w/ Nena and on Instagram at @MsNena29.
What was your motivation?
I have been struggling with my weight for quite some time. I started trying to lose weight back in 2014. I remember going to the doctor, complaining of knee pain, and being shocked when the scale showed a whopping 340 plus pounds. At 5’8″, I assumed I didn’t weigh that much and had always avoided the scale.
I made some efforts to shed the pounds and managed to lose about 45 lbs, but I eventually gained them back. Fast forward to 2018: That was the year I lost my father in January. He was very unhealthy and passed away at just 57 years old.
This was a real wake-up call for me, especially being a single parent. I knew I couldn’t risk leaving my kids behind. I continued to struggle with weight loss, but it wasn’t until the pandemic hit that my father came to me in a dream, encouraging me to keep going. That’s when I kicked it into high gear.
How did you change your eating habits?
One way I changed my eating habits was meal prepping. I prep meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I cut out all sweets and sodas at the beginning of my journey. I strictly drink water, meal prep weekly, and aim to work out at least three times a week.
Tell us about your workout routine.
I’m heavily invested in the gym and even teach group fitness classes, something I never imagined doing. I’ve taught Dance2fit, Step Fitness, and Rip N Ride classes.
I’ve had the support of excellent trainers at the gym where I currently work. I want to give a special “thank you” to my friend and workout partner, Lexie Billick, for pushing me when I wanted to give up. I also want to credit my bosses and trainers, Enrique and Stephanie Roman, for giving me this incredible opportunity and believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself.
What is your current weight?
My current weight is 169 pounds. I have lost this weight naturally.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is you can have anything with portion control and moderation. You do not have to eliminate all the foods you love!
What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
This is what I want to say to all of the wonderful women out there: You can do it, and don’t give up. It’s hard, but remember to choose your hard!
Steph says
This is very inspirational. I am also a single mom and need to make sure I am here for my daughter. What type of food did you eat?
Nena says
In the beginning, I was strictly protein, veggie and a carbs like rice or sweet potatoes. When I learned to eat sweets and other things in moderation, I slowly eased it back into my diet.