Weight Loss Transformation of the Day: Tykisha lost 96 pounds. This proud veteran and Army spouse lost 90+ pounds and then gained 30 over pounds back over a few years of maintaining her weight loss. This year, she’s worked hard to lose those extra pounds once again. Here is what she shared with us about her weight loss journey…
I am 34 years old. I work full time and I’m a military spouse, married for almost 8 years. I am also an Army veteran. I got out of the Army in 2003. At that time, I stopped working out and before I knew it I weighed 248 pounds. In 2009, while my husband was deployed with the Navy for six months, I decided to make a change. I lost 94 lbs from April 2009 to October 2009. However, I got complacent over the years and gained over 30 pounds back. I’ve been very focused since New Year’s and I currently weigh 152 pounds (height 5’5″).
Shortly before my husband was deployed, I looked at myself in the mirror naked and I was disgusted by what I saw. I gave myself the goal to lose 30 lbs. While he was gone, I started working out, which I hadn’t done since I got out of the military. I also began to eat a little healthier (salads, yogurt, protein shakes). Before I knew it, I’d lost 94 lbs. I went from 248 lbs to 154 lbs in six months.
This year for New Year’s I became focused on fitness and not just losing weight. I gave up beef, pork, and diet sodas. Now, I drink half my body weight in water daily. I have a protein shake and fruit for breakfast. I have a snack between breakfast and lunch; nuts, greek yogurt or a protein bar. For lunch and dinner, I have a small portion of meat (chicken or fish usually) with veggies and fruit. Between lunch and dinner I have a snack and I eat dinner before 7pm. If I workout late or get hungry, I have another protein shake.
I workout out six times a week. During my first weight loss journey, all I did was cardio. During my fitness journey, I do everything. I run, hike, lift weights, and do strength training.
Instagram: @tykisharainer
Facebook page: Bodied by Ty
Teana says
Thanks for sharing and you look amazing.
I feel so uncomfortable with this extra weight and will make another attempt to get healthy.
How would you suggest I begin my journey as far as eating and exercising ?
Tykisha says
I suggest you start by exercising an hour a day 4-5 days a week. Do both cardio and strength training. Eat 5- 6 small meals a day. For example breakfast (oatmeal and a fruit), a snack (yogurt or nuts),lunch (chicken or fish and veggies with fruit or a yogurt), another snack, then dinner (which will be similar to your lunch of you meal prep). Drink half your body weight in water! Try to cut out fast food and junk food.
Chandra says
That’s a great tip will do what you suggest.