Success Story #91

 
Name:                         Denise Elia
Location:                    Delray Beach, FL
Improvement:            7% Reduction of Body Fat
Time:                          3 months
Program:                    2012 Total Transformation Challenge
 
What was your biggest challenge / obstacle (s)?
 My biggest challenge as with others is finding the time in a busy schedule to actually do the exercises, challenges and meeting the weekly miles. I am a busy mother, wife and full-time pharmacist, my morning starts off very busy already. I am not a morning person, so to get up extra early and exercise for me was not an option. I had to make it a priority after work each day and on weekends to fit “me” in before my husband and boys activities.
 
What motivated you to stay on the course?
My motivation was that I used to be very physically fit, however once I reached age 40, the pounds just were starting to add up despite good eating habits. I wanted to reduce my weight, tone up to not only feel good for the upcoming summer, but also to create new exercise habits that will stay with me for a long time. I also enjoyed meeting other employees in the challenge and seeing their progress.

Finally Rami’s tips via email helped to keep the motivation and dedication to the challenge, to continue for the full 12 weeks. The boot camps were very motivating, thanks Rami for keeping us all motivated and fit!
 
Did your diet change? If so, How? Please be detailed!
My diet did change. Prior to the challenge I skipped breakfast every day, added sugar to my coffee, put a lot of salt on my food, dinner was my largest meal. I know eat breakfast everyday - typically oatmeal and some fruit. I did not give up coffee, but I am down to one sugar and one cream in my coffee. I also do not salt my food any more, I will add a little pepper for taste. I make dinner my smallest meal - typically a salad or vegetables. Last, I was never a water drinker. I have increased my water intake. With exercising at this level I actually crave water and now enjoy drinking it.
 
What advice could you give to others that want the same results? 
I know everyone says this, but anyone can find the time to do this. You have to make “you” a priority. You will not regret it. I feel less tired, stronger and healthier.
 
How is this experience going to affect you going forward?
I plan on continuing another 12 weeks, to meet my goal weight and goal body fat %.  After that I will do my best to continue this life style change. I also plan on joining a gym with my family, so we can all work-out together if our schedules allow.  This will be much more beneficial then wasting time watching television. I previously ran in 5K races, I would like to start once again participating in these races and walks. They not only keep you in shape, they are also usually supporting a great cause.