Success Story #117

Name: H. Lee
Location: JFK Medical Center. Atlantis, FL
Improvement: 15 lbs Weight Loss
Time: 3 Months
Program: 2010 Total Transformation Challenge

What was your biggest challenge / obstacle(s)? 
The biggest challenge I would have to say was finding the extra time in my day between my two jobs. I have been working 7-7 Monday through Friday, and the last thing I wanted to do at the end of a long day, was go to the gym, especially towards the end of the week. It was also hard giving up my weekend/night life. In addition, as far as my diet was concerned, I had a hard time keeping that on track during the first couple of weeks. 

What motivated you to stay on the course?
A big motivator was belonging to Team Storm Riders cycling team. I learned quickly that if I did not come to ride with them, I would never hear the end of it. Another motivator was other people who constantly asked me if I had lost weight because that showed me that my hard work was paying off.  I wanted to work harder knowing that I was living a healthier lifestyle. 

Did your diet change? If so, How?
Yes, my diet changed dramatically. I started eating real portion sizes instead of the larger ones that I was used to. I was surprised at how satisfied I was by what I used to think was a tiny amount of food. I no longer had that full feeling that made me just want to sit on the couch after eating. Rami’s tips like having dinner be your lightest meal of the day was one thing I really stuck to. I also stopped drinking soda and other sugary drinks. I started including more vegetables in my diet, and changed my snacking habits from chips or fruit snacks to a variety of raw nuts and bananas. 

What advice could you give to others that want the same results?
Watch what you eat, find out what proper meal portions are, and stick with it. Stop by the EWC, and work out at least twice a week. Take the stairs instead of the elevators. Get a bike and join Team Storm Riders, riding a bike is so much better when you do it with others. It makes your work out go faster.

How is this experience going to affect you going forward?
I am going to continue with this healthy lifestyle. I already feel better both physically and mentally and I have not even reached the goal I have set for myself. My blood pressure has lowered as well as my body fat. I know my risk for disease has dramatically decreased and things will continue to improve if I continue on this path. With summer approaching, I am even going to start suggesting more physically active things to do socially such as beach volleyball, or snorkeling as well as recruiting more friends in to road biking with me.