Today’s amazing weight loss before and after story: Tecoye lost 69 pounds. At 4’11” this mom went from 185 to 116 and developed some amazing abs as well. She lost the weight with portion control, changing her diet, and exercise. Her weight loss motivation is very moving. Here is what she shared with us:
I have been overweight most of my life, and because I am only 4’11, any extra weight I have makes it even harder to carry at my size. I was 185 pounds and I was so uncomfortable in my skin and could not do the things I wanted to do with my kids. My husband is my biggest motivation. We were both overweight and tried many times to lose weight and be healthy.
During my first pregnancy, I developed high blood pressure and knew I definitely needed to make a change. My husband and I starting working out until I got pregnant for a second time. During that time, I converted back to some of my old habits. After that pregnancy, I weighed 165 pounds. During both pregnancies, medical issues contributed to early deliveries. My blood pressure was so high when I was pregnant with my son that they had to induce me at 34 weeks. The doctors were afraid that I might slip into a coma. With my daughter, I went into labor and delivered her at 28 weeks. She was only 2.6lbs and spent 2 months in the hospital. Even though it was undetermined why I had went into labor with her so early, it was my personal belief that I could have done more to prevent it.
From that point, I promised myself I would never be like that again. The biggest thing for me is preparation. I prepare my meals ahead of time so I always know what I am going to eat and take to work. My rule of thumb is if I didn’t bring it, I don’t eat it. I incorporated more protein in my diet and pride myself in eating a variety of fruits and vegetables. I don’t eat fried foods and strictly limit myself on carbs and sugars. I also drink at least 80 ounces of water throughout the day. I got up every morning before work at 4:30 and worked out in my basement. I also changed what I was eating. I started off walking on the treadmill and using the elliptical for at least 30 minutes. As I got better I continually increased the intensity of my workouts. I did a lot of jumping exercises like box jumps, jumping jacks and burpees. The first month I lost 15lbs and was excited to continue. As I got smaller the weight became harder to lose, so I started doing yoga. Doing that really sculpted my body. I started in December of 2012 and reached my current weight of 116 pounds in June of 2013. I am in the best shape of my life. I now have just as much energy as my kids to be able to run and keep up with them.
Jackie says
Great job Tecoye! You look great!
Fannie says
You stated you developed high blood pressure when carrying your babies, were you on any pills, if so, what? And have they taken you off? People sometimes leave details out of the reports that I would like to know..thanks! And you look amazing!
Yvonne says
You look fantastic!!! I am a short woman at 5’1″ and I weigh 172lbs. You’re story like many of the others has inspired me. Keep it up and I wish you continued success on your lifechanging journey.
Gilda says
Fantastic!
Carla Richardson says
I am elated to read your story. It gives me inspiration for the future. I am currently 5 months pregnant. I am currently overweight and some of the same issues that u were dealing with while pregnant, I’m now dealing with. I also have health related issues before I became pregnant. I’m praying that I will have a successful pregnancy n’ delivery. I am having my first baby at 40. I trust in GOD that he has helped me find inspriation in something or somebody while pregnant. All I can think about is becoming more healthy once I have this baby. My husband and I plan on having a second child if the Lord is willing. I just don’t want to go through these same health issues n’ worries the second time around. I thank u for your story for it resignates with me and mines. Pray for me and I’ll pray for u.
Ally says
Tecoye you did great! Your abs are awesomeness!
Gotta Lose Weight says
Congrats! You look great! I am 5’1 and 203 lbs. I was 216lbs as of April 2013, the weight loss is slow. I need to pick up the intensity, and get more consistent. Thanks for sharing with us.
Ju says
You are my “inspiration”. Thank you for sharing your story. If you can do it, so can I. Again, thank you!!
Tee says
You look GREAT !
Can you share some of your diet ( meals) / tips on eating healthy ?
what foods did you eliminate from your diet ?
Thanks – wow you are such an inspiration.
I can’t get started – please help.
shirley says
Great story ….motivational!!
Ashley says
We share a common height, and the common number 185. Looking forward to losing such weight. Thanks for sharing.
Ms Mariette says
You look MARVELOUS! I am/We are so proud of your accomplishment! Thanx for the YOGA tip, I would have never thought it would sculpt the way it has for anyone….I have incorporated Pilates and kept my intense cardio and light weights….Pray for me to be consistent!
candi says
one word; wow!
Barbara says
Thank you for sharing your story; Congratulations you look wonderful.