Name: James
Age: 46
Family Status: Single
Occupation: Pastor
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Height: 5’5″
Waist: 38″
Starting Weight: 329 pounds
Current Weight: 220 pounds
Pounds or Inches Lost: I used to weigh 329 pounds and my waistline was 54 inches. My waistline is now 38 inches and I weigh 220 pounds. I lost a total of 109 pounds!
James’s Weight Loss Story!
When did you become unhappy with your weight?
I had been diagnosed with diabetes. My A1C number was 11.1 and I was depressed. My doctor prescribed three different types of insulin that I had to inject daily. She also prescribed three oral medications just for diabetes. I actually gained more weight.
What made you decide to lose weight?
I met a personal trainer (Trevor Pace) that attended my church’s health fair. What impressed me the most was that he was older than me but looked younger. He introduced me to a personalized wellness program which combined nutrition, cardio, and weight training.
What were the most important changes you made to lose weight?
The biggest change I made to achieve the weight loss was my diet. Certain foods had to be removed, some foods had to be increased and other foods had to be prepared differently.
What was most challenging about losing weight?
The most challenging thing about losing weight was recognizing self-destructive triggers like stress, boredom and frustration.
How long did it take you to start to see results?
I began to see results within the first three months of personal training. My blood tests showed that my blood sugar levels normalized and my cholesterol levels improved. My personal trainer performed a body assessment on me. This measured my skinfold, body fat, and overall weight. The body assessment showed that I was losing not only inches but also body fat.
How long did it take for you to reach your current weight?
It took me the first 10 months to lose over 100 pounds.
How long have you maintained your weight loss and how do you do it?
I have been maintaining this weight for the past 5 months through continued exercising and eating a clean diet.
What keeps you motivated to continue your weight loss success?
The mirror definitely keeps me motivated and the opportunity to encourage others who are overweight that they can change for the better.
How has your life changed now that you’ve lost weight?
My life has improved. My doctor treats my diabetes with exercise and nutrition. Clothes shopping has become enjoyable and practical. I am continuously asked to speak and share my story with others.
Do you have any advice for others who are trying to lose weight?
The best advice I have to give anyone who desires to lose weight is to never give up! The longest journey begins with the first step. Hire a trainer. The statistics show that those who have a trainer are more likely to achieve their goal.
How did ShapeFit help you reach your weight loss goals?
I enjoy reading ShapeFit’s weight loss success stories of other men around my age. ShapeFit.com has inspired me to tell my story.
James’s Weight Loss Tips!
Weight loss tip #1:
Plan your meals in advance.
Weight loss tip #2:
Do cardio and weight lifting.
Weight loss tip #3:
Do not skip breakfast.
Weight loss tip #4:
Do not weigh yourself daily.
Weight loss tip #5:
Hire a personal trainer.
James’s Weight Loss Eating Plan!
Breakfast:
4 egg whites and half cup of oatmeal with a small banana.
Lunch:
Green salad with ranch dressing and tofu with an apple.
Dinner:
Tempeh, salad, squash, sweet potato.
Snacks or Mini Meals:
Fruit, rice cakes, yogurt.
Nutritional Supplements:
Multivitamin, protein shakes, EFAs (essential fatty acids).
James’s Weight Loss Workouts!
Weight Training:
Dumbbells, free weights, weight machines, barbells.
Cardiovascular:
Treadmill, jogging, bear crawls, jump rope, jumping jacks.
