Success Story #19

Name: N. Lee-Smith
Improvement: 17 lbs Weight Loss
Time: 3 months
Program: 2016 Total Transformation Challenge

What was your biggest challenge / obstacle (s)?
I am a new employee. When I heard about the challenge, I was very excited. I had been looking for a way to learn how to exercise and strengthen myself without injury. This sounded like the perfect opportunity. I discussed the above goals with our Trainer at the Employee Wellness Center, and added a weight loss goal. He watches out for areas of previous injury, ensuring safety at all times. So it began.

What motivated you to stay on the course?
Having a group of co-workers training and sweating with you is great motivation. The verbal kibitzing between groups also ups the ante. Basically, simultaneous work and fun.
I began walking ½ mile a day and have increased to 5 miles a day, and loving it. I can also touch my toes with my legs straight, lift weights, do a “plank” for 2 minutes, row a mile, and wear smaller clothes.

Did your diet change? If so, How? Please be detailed!
The diet had to change. Dinner before 7 p.m. Carbs after 3 p.m. was out. Pizza had to go. (Glad it isn’t football season.) Sugar-free ice cream had to go. (I miss mint chocolate chip ice cream.) Fortunately I love vegetables, fruit, nuts, and whole grains. By the way, baked skinless chicken breast with lemon-pepper seasoning is good with a nice salad for dinner.   

What advice could you give to others that want the same results?
My advice to anyone is to try the challenge. Give yourself 3 months.  You will have a fuller, healthier life. Go ahead. Try it! What have you got to lose?   

How is this experience going to affect you going forward?
I feel amazing. I am sleeping better. My emotional state is better than it has been in years. I have the energy that I thought I had lost with menopause. I believe this is my newly found lifestyle. I want to always feel this good. I have promised myself to continue this journey to health and wellbeing.