I have always struggled with my weight. Growing up, I enjoyed eating and would always "clean my plate" at meal time. I was active as a child, but during my teenage years I lost interest in sports and physical activity. I was very self-conscious about my body, what I ate, and how others viewed me. I really wasn't overweight at that time, but I felt huge and could never get as thin as most girls my age.
I am the mother of two boys, now ages 9 and 14. I gained a lot of weight (about 70 pounds) with each pregnancy. However, I did manage to lose the baby weight. It wasn't until after this that I really began to struggle with my weight. I became an emotional eater, and would eat whether I was happy or depressed; I turned to food for comfort. I figured that I would never really be thin, and thought, what is the point? I completely gave up, which was such a mistake. In a few months, I went from about 150 pounds to 204 pounds, the heaviest I had ever been. I was so uncomfortable and couldn't stand to look at myself in pictures. I was wearing a size 16, and even that size was starting to feel tight. I also worried that I was at risk for having a heart attack or stroke at a very young age. In addition to constantly overeating, I was not exercising or doing any type of physical activity.
I realized that I needed to make a change for myself and so that I could set a better example for my children. First, I decided to change my diet. I added lots of fruits and raw veggies, oatmeal and chicken. I stopped drinking soda, and cut down substantially on the sweets and white bread. I also started to drink two or three bottles of water per day and changed my portion sizes, which was very hard at first.
I realized that I needed to start exercising too. I told myself that even if I wasn't "thin," it was important to be in shape and to take care of my body. I have always liked Denise Austin because she is always bubbly and energetic, and she looks fabulous. I started to use her Get Fit Fast tapes, and I still exercise to them on a daily basis — I never tire of them! Each tape has three 10–minute workouts, and I exercise for 20 minutes each morning, alternating between the tapes. Within about three weeks, my clothes were looser and I could see muscle definition in my arms and legs. Denise is so encouraging that it made me want to keep on going. During the workouts, she made me feel as though I was really doing a good job and it kept me motivated to try my best.
I am now back down to 146 pounds, and I am so much healthier and in shape. Not only do I have much more energy, but I feel like a better person inside and out. I really do enjoy these workouts and they have become part of my morning routine. I actually have muscle tone, shape and definition. I've received many compliments from family, friends, and coworkers in regards to my weight loss — I've even been told that I look skinny! Denise's fitness videos and positive message have helped me to change my lifestyle and maintain a healthy weight, something that I have struggled with for so long. I'm a happier person and now have more energy for my children. I still think about food and enjoy eating, but I never want to go back to my previous weight. I know that I can still have sweets, but in moderation. I watch portions and continue to exercise daily. Sometimes I do slip up, but I just keep on going. Tomorrow is a new day, and I simply start fresh. I will never let myself give up again!
SECRET TO SUCCESS: In terms of diet, I think that it is key to just be patient and hang in there because your body (and stomach) will adjust to smaller, regular–sized portions. I've also decided that it's not about the numbers! It's about trying to be healthy, making positive choices, and taking care of your body.
More DeniseAustin.com Success Stories:
Latonia's Story: Now an Aerobics Instructor
Casey's Story: Finding Health and Happiness
*Weight loss varies by individual. You may not achieve these results.