Zoila’s Weight Loss Statistics
- Age: 37
- Family Status: Single
- Occupation: College Professor
- Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Height: 5’7″
- Starting Weight: 290 pounds
- Current Weight: 190 pounds
- Current Waist Size: 32″
Zoila’s Weight Loss Interview
How much did you lose?
I lost 100 pounds and went from a size 22 to now wearing a size 10!
When did you become unhappy with your weight?
I grew up in shape, however, my college “20” became a college “80” and I packed on a lot of additional pounds. A mental struggle of weight gain continued on for 18 years.
What made you decide to lose weight?
My doctor found a fibroid that was 10kg in weight and it was causing an incarcerated hernia to form. My weight did not help the medical situation and it was after a double surgery and a long recovery period that I decided to take hold of myself again.
What were the most important changes you made to lose weight?
Little changes needed to be accomplished so I started looking at my diet, calories eaten and daily movement. I began to lecture standing up and moving around the classroom rather than sitting at my desk. I activated my pedometer on my iPhone which allowed me to track how many steps I took every day.
What was the most challenging thing you had to deal with during your weight loss journey?
Overcoming the fear that any progress that was met, I would lose it if I ate wrong was difficult to deal with. I had to learn to relax and listen to my body. Listening to your body for sleep, eating, nutrition, sex, exercise and pain is very important.
How long did it take you to start to see results?
I began to see results within the first few months. It’s important to remember that I had to wait 6 weeks for my post-surgery recovery to begin a workout regimen.
How long did it take for you to reach your current weight?
It took me 14 months to reach my current weight.
Did you have any issues with loose skin after losing the weight?
A little loose skin under my arms, but I’m working on it slowly with strength training.
How long have you maintained your weight loss and what are the most important factors for keeping it off?
I have maintained this weight for about 2 months. It’s important to keep working hard since you only have one body so make sure to take care of it.
What keeps you motivated to continue your weight loss success?
My family and friends that say I am starting to look like my teenage self!
How has your life changed now that you have lost weight?
I pay attention to how I look. I pay close attention to my wardrobe, hair, makeup, shoes and nails.
Do you have any advice for others who are trying to lose weight?
Nobody can force you on this weight loss journey. When you are ready, you’ll know it’s time to get started.
How did ShapeFit help you reach your weight loss goals?
ShapeFit’s weight loss stories that would come to my email via the weekly fitness newsletter along with the healthy recipes were very helpful.
Zoila’s Weight Loss Tips
Weight Loss Tip #1:
Sweat every day for at least 30 minutes.
Weight Loss Tip #2:
Remember to stretch your muscles.
Weight Loss Tip #3:
Drink a lot of water and stay away from sugary juices and smoothies.
Weight Loss Tip #4:
Indulge in a cheat meal, not a cheat day.
Weight Loss Tip #5:
Learn to love plants, veggies, fruits, legumes, and whole wheat.
Zoila’s Weight Loss Eating Plan
What do you normally eat for breakfast?
Tea – Raspberry zinger with raw honey.
What do you normally eat for lunch?
Vegetarian chili with soy cheese, watercress topped with organic chips. Water to drink.
What do you normally eat for dinner?
Mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli and carrots. Another option would be my chipotle vegan tacos. Remember that the brain wants the flavor, not the fat!
What do you normally eat for snacks?
Raw almonds, sliced strawberries, Skinny Pop popcorn, oven-baked French fries with fried rosemary sprigs.
What types of nutritional supplements do you take?
B12 complex and a multivitamin.
Zoila’s Weight Loss Workouts
What do you do for weight training (exercises, workouts)?
PiYo – Pilates Yoga (Beach Body) Series.
What do you do for cardio training (exercises, workouts)?
Elliptical machine and running on the beach at 5am in the morning.
