Megan’s Weight Loss Statistics
- Name: Megan
- Age: 29
- Family Status: Single
- Occupation: Insurance Agent
- Location: Benbrook, Texas
- Height: 5’5″
- Starting Weight: 200 pounds
- Current Weight: 120 pounds
- Current Waist Size: 24″
Megan’s Weight Loss Interview
How much did you lose?
I started my weight loss journey back in 2016. I was in an unhappy marriage and started going to the gym to find a release. First it was cardio, then I started counting calories and I ended up losing about 70 pounds by August of that same year. Since then, I maintained for a while and then started lifting weights in 2018. In 2019, I found the NPC league and decided to compete in the bikini division. I did my first show in November of 2019, and since then I’ve done 4 shows in 2020 and even won my IFBB pro card.
When did you become unhappy with your weight?
I have struggled with weight my entire life and especially with binge eating. I lost my dad to cancer just before my 13th birthday and kind of spiraled down from there. When I got my driver’s license, I was regularly eating at Mcdonald’s and gas stations and also visiting vending machines at school for practically every meal of the day. My senior year I got things under control, but when I decided to get married young (19 years old), I let myself go again until I was about 25 years old (in 2016).
What made you decide to lose weight?
Being unhappy in my marriage. I wanted something for myself and I wanted to be happy with how I looked in the mirror. I rode horses and would always have pictures taken at shows and just HATED what I saw! I wanted to disappear. A doctor even told me I was at risk for diabetes so that was a real wake up call too.
What were the most important changes you made to lose weight?
Adding in cardio and most importantly counting calories. Diet is crucial when it comes to losing weight. Not necessarily “cutting carbs or fats” or “only eating protein”. The only thing that really matters is calories in versus calories out. Most importantly, you need to fuel your body if you’re going to be weight training or working out hard.
What was the most challenging thing you had to deal with during your weight loss journey?
I’d say everyone else’s opinion on it is very challenging. There is not one way to lose weight, so you have to do what works for you. There’s also a lot of “you looked better before” or “you’re too extreme now” comments from people and just a lot of judgment. Don’t get me wrong, there’s a lot of support too so that’s great!
How long did it take you to start to see results?
The first 2 weeks I had pretty fast results because I dropped a significant amount of water weight, which even if it’s water weight, it’s extremely motivating. I’d say I lost about 30 pounds in 2-3 months, took a little break, and then lost the rest.
How long did it take for you to reach your current weight?
Before I started competing I maintained about 130-135 pounds since the end of 2016. I’m now about 120 pounds and just coming off a show season, but I also have a lot more muscle mass now.
Did you have any issues with loose skin after losing the weight?
I think I got lucky with loose skin since I was overweight most of my life, but I did still lose the weight fairly young and did not have too much left behind. I think any of the loose skin that I see at this point is just in my own head!
How long have you maintained your weight loss and what are the most important factors for keeping it off?
I have maintained the weight loss since the end of 2016. I genuinely value my health now. I’m so thankful for this body and everything it’s been through with me and put up with over the years. I’m proud of being able to go run a 5k like it’s nothing or to run up flights of stairs without losing my breath.
What keeps you motivated to continue your weight loss success?
Now I’m motivated more than ever because I’ll be competing on a pro level.
How has your life changed now that you have lost weight?
I have so much more confidence in myself which has allowed me to be a lot more independent.
Do you have any advice for others who are trying to lose weight?
Consistency is key! You will never see results if you don’t stay consistent. Weight loss also isn’t linear, there’s going to be bad days, but you have to push through them if you want the end result. You also have to realize it’s not temporary, it’s 100% a lifestyle change!
How did ShapeFit help you reach your weight loss goals?
My mom actually sent me the ShapeFit weight loss success story submission and I thought it would be an awesome way to share my journey and hopefully help others!
Megan’s Weight Loss Tips
Weight Loss Tip #1:
Be consistent!
Weight Loss Tip #2:
Do it for yourself.
Weight Loss Tip #3:
Never give up.
Weight Loss Tip #4:
Win the day.
Weight Loss Tip #5:
Appreciate how far you’ve come.
Megan’s Weight Loss Eating Plan
What do you normally eat for breakfast?
Normally I have a protein, fat, and carb, so it’s usually egg whites, almond butter, oatmeal.
What do you normally eat for lunch?
It’s typically chicken, rice and asparagus.
What do you normally eat for dinner?
Beef, rice and asparagus.
What do you normally eat for snacks?
Sometimes I’ll make my own protein pancakes, protein bars, oatmeal, eggs.
What type of nutritional supplements do you take?
Fiber & Greens, Vitamin D & C, fish oil, biotin.
Megan’s Weight Loss Workouts
What do you do for weight training (exercises, workouts)?
I have a weight training split I follow because I love to workout and lift weights. I structure my workouts with 2 shoulder days a week, 2 back days, and 2 leg days. I throw in chest/triceps/biceps/abs on some of the upper body workout days.
What do you do for cardio training (exercises, workouts)?
For cardio workouts I like doing the StairMaster, incline walking on the treadmill and I’m now trying to ride the bike, but I am not very good at it so far!
