Update June 2015: “I’ve maintained my weight loss by continuing to surround myself around the group of ladies in my organization, FFW, as well as being mindful of portion control, calorie intake, increase cardio workouts. My mission is to be sure I continue to move forward and not backwards. I’ve tried to maintain good eating habits, by limiting sugars and artificial sweetners, watch my carbohydrate intake, and always be sure to drink my H2O. I try and exercise at least 3-4 times a week an hour to hour 1/2 on those days. I’ve lost an additional 5 pounds since you all last featured me. I’ve increased strength training, I’m now focusing on toning. I’ve instructed several boot camps here in the Houston area. FFW is looking to do big things within the next few years, currently looking for our own space for work out sessions, I’m currently working with a certified fitness instructor to obtain my own fitness/personal trainer certification! I personally understand the struggle first hand of being obese and losing the weight and understand what had to be done and what is necessary to keep the weight off.
Be sure you all follow us on Instagram: @ffw_full_figuredwomen & Facebook: FFW Full Figured Women“
Weight Loss Story of the Day: Michele lost 72 pounds. She took the time to learn about the role of calories in weight loss and committed herself to exercise. Over the last 2 years she has lost the weight and started a great group to help others do the same. Read all about her journey:
Greetings my name is Michele DeRouselle, and I’d like to share my weight loss success story with the group. I begin my weight loss journey nearly 2 years ago. My beginning weight was 254 lbs when I actually stepped on the scale. I was motivated to begin this journey when my son reached his sophomore year in high school. No more football games where I’m out of breath from walking up stairs. No more embarrassment because of my size, it was time to make a difference and take control of my life. It’s taken me almost 2 years to lose 72 pounds, but I wanted to be sure that I was doing this the right way. I’m now weighing in at about 182lbs and life is great. I’ve really gained control of my life, understanding that I must consider my calorie intake. I also exercise regularly at least 5-6 times a week. I’ve now begun weight training with my husband and my work-out buddies.
I totally changed my eating habits, decreasing my calorie intake and understanding that increasing the calories burned were the only way I’d see myself making progress. I cut out fatty foods, soda, sweets, and just understood that this is not a diet it’s a lifestyle change that I’m totally enjoying. I currently replace meals with meal replacement shakes, such as total soy meal replacement. I also drink green smoothies a lot to be sure I’m intaking enough nutrition, i.e. Veggies & fruits. I’ve almost tripled my water intake. When I first began, the only exercise I could really do was just step aerobics and the treadmill. I’m now able to participate in boot camps, 5k runs and really push myself.
This weight loss journey has allowed me to begin my own organization to help women that struggle just as I did, FFW Full Figured Women. The key to weight loss is to have patience, don’t quit, understand it won’t happen overnight. You should also surround yourself with people who want the same as you, so that you are able to encourage and motivate each other. Slow and steady, but I’m winning my race. I’m able to now jog 2-3 miles and not stop, not out of breath and I’m loving every minute of it.
Chenetra Martin says
Yay Lil Red! We are soooooooo proud of you! “Challenges brings changes!” “If it does challenge you, it won’t change you!”
Joni Mitchell says
Awesome!!! Michelle great job sexy!! I’m proud of your success. Were gonna get there thanks for your dedication to the cause and your inspiration and encouragement to us all. We love you!!!
Vanessa says
Congratulations you look great
Rhonda says
Congrats to you! You look great. The thought of you doing this all on your own is awesome!!! Just a lot of hard work & motivation. You always says “hard work pays off” now you showing it! So so proud of you!!
Shannon DeRouselle says
“this is not a diet,its a lifestyle change”. Words to live by. Such a motivating journey. You’ve definitely inspired me. Keep up the great work!!!!
Marietta Davis says
Hello reading ur story has encouraged me to started taking better care of my life im always taking care of everyone eles i have to get my life back because i have to be hear for my youson who suffer with seizures but god has been sooo good to him he hasnt had a seizure sent 2010 and i give god the glory i was so depressed i just was eating on the run worrying about him but now its time to see about me who can help me
Michele says
Thank you so much for your comment,which I knew who this was! It’s been a long hard road, but it’s one that is worth it & I’ve never felt better.
Barbara says
Thanks Michele, Your story helps me be more realistic about the time and effort it takes to lose 72 pounds. My starting weight was close to yours and my goal is 80 pounds. Six months in I’m down 26 pounds. You have no idea how much your sharing motivates me. And you look great! Best wishes !
AM says
Michele,
I remember when you started this journey two years ago, and I am so proud of you! You look absolutely amazing!!!! You inspire me to want to push myself for a better lifestyle.
Lisa says
Michele,
YES MAA”M………..you are doing that thang! Sistah you look FIERCE & FAB and your testimony is encouraging for those of us on the journey to better living.
thanks for keeping it real and paying it forward! Love the fire engine red hair! YOU ROCK!
Stay happy healthy and whole!
Anirudh says
Losing 72 pounds is really amazing. And seeing the before and after picture is even more amazing. This is really very motivating for us “weight loss aspirants”. Great work!
Michele says
Thank you all, it’s been a long rough journey at times. But it’s one I wouldn’t trade, I’ve learned so much about nutrition, calories, water consumption, and sister hood. I’m living proof that this can be done, and old bad habits can be broken.
DELOIS KINCAID says
michele you look soooooo GREAT!!! WAY TO GO GIRL… KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK… AND I COULD REALLY USE YOUR HELP..
Brooks says
I’ve seen the old you and I see the new you.
AWESOME JOB!!!!!!!!!!!