Update: Heather lost 50 pounds

Update Aug 2018: We’ve been following Heather‘s story since 2012 and she has worked hard to keep the weight off.

I shared my story 5 years ago, I wanted to let BWLW know that I’m still going strong. I’m now a Zumba instructor and love encouraging others to meet their weight loss goals.

I was able to get the weight off back in 2012. It took me a year to lose the weight. I worked out 5 days a week and monitored my caloric intake by putting everything into the MyFitnessPal app.

I am always looking for ways to challenge my fitness goals. Now, I’m really focusing on weight lifting and toning. My goal is to be fit and healthy for the rest of my life. @rae_of_light16

We shared Heather’s story back in 2012 when she was down 45 pounds.  She recently sent us an update to let us know that she’s not only maintained her weight loss, but she’s lost 5 more pounds. 50 pounds gone!  Here is what she shared with us… (Read the original post here for more info)

I started gaining weight while in a bad marriage. I became very depressed and turned to food for comfort. Between 2006-2012, I had put on over 40 pounds! In January 2012, during my separation, I woke up one morning and decided I wanted to change. I needed to get my body back. So, I downloaded the MyFitnessPal app and began logging everything I ate. I also got a YMCA membership. Both of these tools have been invaluable to me in my journey. I went from 168 lbs to 118 lbs. I weigh less now than I did in my early 20s!

I had to change my entire mindset about eating. I needed to learn portion control. I learned that it’s okay to have the occasional snack like a cookie, just don’t eat the whole bag. Whereas, at one point I would have several slices of cake at a party, now I just enjoy one slice and savor every bite! However, I’ve found that now I much prefer healthy, clean foods.

As far as exercise, I try different things so as not to get bored. I love group exercise classes like Zumba and Les Mills Body Pump. Group exercise allows you to meet others with similar goals and mindsets. In one of my Body Pump classes I met an 80 year old woman that inspires me! She is dedicated to her class and she is absolutely beautiful. In one of my Zumba classes, I met an 85 year old man that has been a member of the Y for over 60 years! I’ve met so many amazing people on my fitness journey and I’m so glad I took that step three years ago to get fit! I will become a licensed Zumba instructor on February 19, 2015.

My advice to anyone starting out is to just do it. Take that step. The best investment you will make is in yourself. Take care of your body. You’ll thank yourself decades from now.

Instagram: @heather_lovingme15