Name: Sylvia
Age: 28
Family Status: Single
Occupation: Part time worker in retail
Hometown: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Height: 5’4″
Starting Weight: 237 pounds
Current Weight: 145 pounds
Pounds or Inches Lost: I lost 92 pounds!
Sylvia’s Weight Loss Story!
When did you become unhappy with your weight?
I have always been a big girl. As a child, I was the biggest girl in class. I became extremely introverted and I isolated myself and used food for comfort. By the end of high school, I was over 200 pounds. By the end of my post-secondary studies, I was well over 230 pounds.
What made you decide to lose weight?
I was carrying 235 pounds on a 5’4″ frame and it was more than what my body could handle. My body was talking to me but I was ignoring it. Shortness of breath, back aches and feeling lethargic were part of my everyday life. At 25, I was miserable. After Ali Vincent became the first female Biggest Loser, I knew I could do it too. I saw myself in her and we had the same starting weight. Not being able to apply on the show because I’m not a US resident, I decided to give weight loss one last try. I decided to go through with my New Year’s resolution, dusted off my old gym bag and gave exercise a chance. I never set a goal based on numbers on a scale, I just wanted my life back. I enlisted the help of a trainer, worked out diligently and I started to eat clean.
What were the most important changes you made to lose weight?
Eating clean and exercising.
What was most challenging about losing weight?
The hardest part was changing my whole way of life and seeing food as fuel rather than a “friend”.
How long did it take you to start to see results?
Probably after 1 month.
How long did it take for you to reach your current weight?
2 1/2 years now but I would still like to lose another 30 pounds and compete for my first figure competition.
How long have you maintained your weight loss and how do you do it?
2 1/2 years. I keep it off by exercising 4 to 5 times a week and by eating clean.
How has your life changed now that you’ve lost weight?
I’m a much happier person. I love the person I’ve become! I’m more outgoing and I finally started dating. I love ME!
How did ShapeFit help you reach your weight loss goals?
ShapeFit’s weight loss success stories are very inspirational!
Sylvia’s Weight Loss Tips!
Weight loss tip #1:
Believe in yourself and you’ll achieve whatever you put your mind to. Remember that you have not gained the weight overnight and it will not come off overnight. Slow and steady wins the race. You deserve a healthier and happier you because you’re worth it.
Weight loss tip #2:
Journal your food intake. Calories add up quickly!
Weight loss tip #3:
Get rid of your fat clothes and don’t hold on to them. Know that there’s no going back! Keep one item to remember how far you’ve come.
Weight loss tip #4:
Find a support network like a partner, friends or online buddies. It’s a must! You’re not in this alone!
Weight loss tip #5:
Be proud of any success.
Sylvia’s Weight Loss Eating Plan!
Breakfast:
Scrambled egg whites, whole wheat toast, 1 cup of orange juice.
Lunch:
Chicken, sweet potato and salad.
Dinner:
Salmon and veggies.
Snacks or Mini Meals:
Apple and cashews, apple and peanut butter, Greek yogurt and fruit, protein shake.
Sylvia’s Weight Loss Workouts!
Weight Training:
One hour of weight training, 3-4 times a week.
Cardiovascular:
1 to 2 hours of cardio (stairmaster or treadmill) plus an aerobic or step class.
