Name: Christina
Age: 41
Family Status: Single
Occupation: Foster Parent
Hometown: Stamford, New York
Pounds or Inches Lost: I have lost 97 pounds and 30% body fat!
Starting Weight: 214 pounds
Current Weight: 117 pounds
Christina’s Weight Loss Story!
When did you become unhappy with your weight?
I have always been unhappy with my weight. I have been overweight since I was in grade school and it always held me back. I finally couldn’t stand it anymore.
What made you decide to lose weight?
I was watching Dr. Oz on Discovery Channel and they showed an open heart surgery and he pointed out the amount of fat the heart had on it. I decided then, and there, that I was changing my life. I didn’t want to be the woman with that heart!
What were the most important changes you made to lose weight?
I first added lots of veggies, fruits, and whole grains. I cut out high fructose corn syrup and hydrogenated fats. Every few months, I would tweak something new. I also made a commitment to exercise.
What was most challenging about losing weight?
The food. The exercise doesn’t bother me as much as the fact that I can’t always eat what I want or how much I want.
How long did it take you to start to see results?
I started seeing results in a couple of months. I started feeling results pretty quickly.
How long did it take for you to reach your current weight?
It took me 18 months to get to my current weight.
How long have you maintained your weight loss and how do you do it?
I have maintained for two months now and, actually, lost 3 pounds while learning maintenance! I still watch calories and exercise. Nothing really changed from when I was losing weight. I just get to eat a little more now and can have a treat every now and then.
How has your life changed now that you’ve lost weight?
Everything has changed! It would take forever to explain. The main things are that I have a ton more energy, people treat me differently, and I have a lot more self-confidence.
How did ShapeFit help you reach your weight loss goals?
I read each and every ShapeFit article. I used whatever resources they offered to learn more about fitness and nutrition. I think ShapeFit is a lifesaver. It has helped me tremendously!
Christina’s Weight Loss Tips!
Weight loss tip #1:
Take it one step at a time so you don’t get discouraged.
Weight loss tip #2:
Start exercising right away!
Weight loss tip #3:
Don’t start out too low with the calories or you’ll have nowhere to go.
Weight loss tip #4:
Plateaus happen! Think of them as practice for maintenance and ride them out.
Weight loss tip #5:
Days speed by and you can either keep waiting to start tomorrow or start today and see a huge difference next week, month, or year.
Christina’s Weight Loss Eating Plan!
Breakfast:
Protein Shake and Cheerios.
Lunch:
Chicken on whole wheat tortilla, spinach salad, tomato, cucumber, apple, and a small piece of 70% dark chocolate.
Dinner:
Low sodium vegetable soups with added chicken.
Snacks or Mini Meals:
Cottage cheese and grapefruit with 1/2 whole wheat bagel and natural jelly. 1 oz almonds and a yogurt with fruit.
Christina’s Weight Loss Workouts!
Weight Training:
I do weights 3 times a week religiously for 30-45 minutes each time. I switch up reps, exercises, anything I can to keep it new and to prevent adaptation.
Cardiovascular:
I run, walk, bike, or do the elliptical for a total of 60 minutes at least 5 days a week. Cardio keeps me able to eat at a higher calorie level and I love to eat!
