Tanika lost 120 pounds

Weight Loss Transformation of the Day: Tanika lost 120 pounds. This proud mom wanted to live a long, healthy life and be more active with her daughter.  Here is what she shared with us about her journey…

Hello, my name is Tanika. I am a 30 year old single mother of a 10 year old, beautiful girl. Growing up, I was always athletic even in high school playing five different sports. I even worked for a gym. I became pregnant at the age of 20 and I weighed 155 pounds on the day I found out. I’d gained 50 pounds when I gave birth to my daughter, but over the years I continued gain weight unknowingly until I looked at a photograph of myself. I weighed myself and I topped out at 295 pounds.

Then, I moved back to California where I became a little more health-conscious after getting into a relationship with a wonderful man who also lives a very fit life. He helped motivate me. I also wanted to do better in terms of my appearance. I gradually started working out 2 times a week during doing moderate cardio and extensive weight training. I even took a few courses in Muay Thai to boost up my stamina. After seeing results, it became naturally for me work out regularly, and I have now started working out 4 times a week. I have changed my eating habits by cutting out sugar, increasing my protein intake and drinking more water. I also drink a lot of smoothies and raw juices.

I now weigh 175 pounds, but the majority of that weight is muscle. My goal is not to be a size 2 but to live a fit and healthy life. I want to be able to run and keep up with my daughter who is a cheerleader. I still have the moves to do a toe touch. The only thing I say to others is find who you are inside and live your life right. Don’t worry about being small, just be healthy. You will see the longevity in your life.