Tanika lost 39 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Tanika lost 39 pounds. When her mother’s cancer came back, it was very stressful. She was exhausted, and her health was suffering. As she processed the stress of being a caregiver and pain of losing her mom, she also focused on self-care by changing her diet and working out at Planet Fitness.

I started my journey in September 2018. That’s when I found out my mother’s cancer was back. Between doctors visits and taking care of her, I was exhausted. I needed some self-care, so I changed my diet.

I cut back on fried chicken, cake and ice cream. I replaced those foods by adding more fruits and vegetables to my diet, which was easy because I used to follow a vegan diet. Also, my A1C levels were climbing and so was my blood pressure. My doctor started me on medicine for my blood pressure.

With all of the stressors I was dealing with, I knew I needed something to do. I needed a safe space, somewhere to process this pain. So, I joined Planet Fitness. At the time I joined PF, I weighed 275 pounds at 5’8″. I was exhausted and overwhelmed. I challenged myself to go to the gym at least three times a week. Three turned into four, and now I go five times a week.

My workout routine consists of plenty of cardio. I start on the treadmill, elliptical and stair machine. Then, I get on the bike, followed by lifting. I end my workout with yoga and meditation.

I lost my mother two days after my birthday. She taught me so much in her last days about how to live and enjoy life, so I ran with that concept. Now, I weigh 236 pounds. I’m very proud of myself for choosing me, and I hope to encourage other women to live.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far: Don’t follow a specific routine. It can become boring. Instead, I put on my favorite music and rock and sweat my stress away.

My advice to my sisters is to be like Nike and Just Do It. Exercise is pouring love into yourself, so fill up, Lovely!

Instagram: @LovelyNika78

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