What a difference a year makes!!

April 2010
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March 2011
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In September 2010, after watching a story on NewsChannel 36 Today about a man here in Charlotte losing 243 pounds in one year, with a starting weight of almost 600, I decided that it was time for me to make some changes. The man in the story was not able to move from his sofa, let alone do any sort of exercise. But, his doctor told him that if he did not lose weight, he would die. So, the gentleman began to move. He moved his arms, he moved his legs, while sitting on the sofa. He did what he was able to do until he could do more. He gradually progressed to the point of being able to get on the stationary bike in his living room. Slowly he worked up to 15 miles a day on his bike.

Hearing this man's story convinced me that if he could do it, I could do it. So it was on September 22, 2011 that I embarked on this journey of eating better, exercising 4-5 times a week, and drinking lots more water. I began to ride the stationary bike at my apartment community's fitness room. I worked up to 15-20 miles a day, and one day even hit 30 miles, in one session. I was proud of myself! I was so tired of being a 'thick' girl. I was ready to do what was needed to get healthy.

I initially knocked off 20 pounds and then plateaued. At that point I moved to the elliptical machine, and then added a weight lifting circuit because as I was losing weight I now needed to tone. I eventually hit the 30 pounds down mark, but have fluctuated back and forth since. I'm still working out, switching it up between the bike and the elliptical, and weights and crunches.

My ultimate goal is to lose 60 pounds. I want to wear a size 8-10. I don't remember EVER wearing that size. I know that as I remain diligent in my efforts I will reach my goal. It just takes a little inspiration to make that first step. You can do it!