Transformation of the Day: Shiryl lost 172 pounds. Crohn’s Disease, depression and fatigue were making her very unhappy. She became a vegetarian and developed a true passion for fitness. Check out what she shared with us about her journey.
Hi, my name is Shiryl and I used to weigh 380 pounds. I have been overweight the majority of my life. However, my weight really got out of control when I was diagnosed with a chronic illness called Crohn’s Disease. I was severely unhappy with my life and depressed. I realized that I was tired of being sick and tired, and that I was the only person who could change my current situation. So, I decided to do something drastic.
I decided to go vegetarian. I decided to cut out meat and fish. Looking back on it now, this was the best decision I’ve ever made with regard to my health. After goind vegetarian, I noticed that I wasn’t in pain anymore and that I could be more active.
I cut back on soda, eating fast food and eating sweets. I used to go to the grocery store and I could eat a sheet cake in one sitting. I could also eat icing out of the can. I used to eat fast food for each meal. By cutting back drastically, I changed my eating habits and had to cook for myself. I rarely eat out now. I cook all of my meals. I started drinking infused water to help with my sugar cravings.
I started taking a boot camp style workout class once a week and build up to 3-4 times a week. The people who I worked out with became my support system. They gave me the tools that I needed to eventually branch out on my own and start teaching fitness as well. We all have different levels of fitness. You just have to be consistent and go at your own pace, but continue to PUSH through any and all obstacles.
I’ve been consistent for 4 years now. I have loss 172 pounds naturally. My single motivation was to get healthy. Going through life and not living because of your weight isn’t a good feeling. I’m currently comfortable at my current weight. I am 5’11” and I weigh 208 pounds. I’m able to LIVE.
Since losing my weight and becoming a vegetarian a few things happened in my life. I discovered that I love to help other people like me, so I teach a fitness class 3 times a week @rebootedfitness. The digestion issues I experienced due to my Crohn’s disease are much better. My fatigued has disappeared.
I often tell people to never give up and never compare yourself to someone else journey. The weight isn’t going to drop off in a few months. For some it may take 4 years, like me. One year, I only loss 15 pounds, but I lost a lot of inches. It’s easy to give up. Always remember why you started when things get rough, because it will.
I currently do a kettle bell workout with a certified kettle bell instructor. I love the results this training has given me in a short amount of time. It is cardio and strength training all in one. Primal movement and yoga are some other workouts that I do… Basically bodyweight workouts. I currently workout 3-4 days a week for about 30-45 minutes. I don’t count calories. As long it is healthy, then I’m good with that. I post most of my workouts on my Instagram: @shiryl_gets_fit and @rawkinfitness
Renee Peterson says
I’m so proud of you. You’re truly an inspiration to me.. Thanks for sharing your story.