My Weight Loss Journey – One Year Later

It was early September 2010. At over 225 pounds and sporting a size 40 waist, I decided it was time to make a change. After all, at 46-years old, I wasn’t getting any younger.

In order to hold myself accountable to my desire to get fit and lose weight, I went public with my goals. I wrote about the changes I would be making extensively on this blog. My first entry was posted 9/14/10.

By February 2011, I had lost over 50 pounds and felt better than I can ever remember feeling in my life. I wrote about this and posted a video in March.

I was hoping to inspire others on this journey, and by the comments and emails I still receive I believe I have accomplished that goal as well.

One of the questions I get is “have I kept the weight off?” I thought I would answer that question in today’s post.

The answer is YES!

This is me today.

This is also me…

My routine has not changed much since I started. However, I AM able to enjoy more of the “bad” foods that I gave up while my body was “resetting” to a more favorable metabolism and weight range.

Before I tell you more about what I am doing, it’s important to remember that there is not a perfect plan that applies to everyone. The so-called “diets” are not universal. While there are dietary recommendations that apply to most of us, an actual plan needs to resonate with you and fit with your lifestyle. Otherwise, you end up punishing yourself and putting the weight back on over time.

You MUST figure out what works for you and then stick to your plan.

As for me, the most important step in my plan was having a plan! Once I had decided that I wanted to lose weight and become more fit, following the plan really was more effortless than you would imagine. I knew where I wanted to go and I knew how to get there. I also wanted it badly enough to follow through.

I am a big fan of breakfast. Bacon and eggs are a great way to start the day. Many nutritionists will tell you that breakfast is the MOST important meal of the day.

That may be, but I am willing to forego breakfast the majority of the time. Instead, I enjoy a Shakeology chocolate shake first thing in the morning. One scoop of powder mixed with water and I’m good.

I go through one bag each month and I still love it. As far as I am concerned, it is the best meal-replacement drink available. You can learn more about Shakeology if you click here.

After my shake, I either hit the treadmill or walk outside. The weather has been great, so I haven’t seen the treadmill in a while. But with winter on the way, I am sure I’ll be walking in place soon.

I find walking to be a great way to start my day. I’ll listen to my iPod, think about my day, pray… it’s a solid “me” time that I don’t like missing.

While I was losing weight, I didn’t each much lunch. Instead, I would eat a balance bar each day. They are tasty, low-calorie and filling. Go figure.

If that isn’t filling enough, I’ll eat some nuts or a fruit strip. I find these to be my favorites.

By the time dinner comes around, I am ready for a full meal. My energy level is great and I can pack in a decent amount of food without overdoing it.

During the weight-loss period, this would consist of tacos, chicken sandwiches, wraps, caesar salads and other less caloric choices. Now that my body has recalibrated, I enjoy more substantial portions of mexican, italian, chinese, and american foods. I try not to go overboard. And if I DO eat too much one day, I’ll just cut back the next. Or, I’ll go for an extra walk in the evening. I’ve got the energy and its easy enough to do, so why not?

While I was losing weight, I was disciplined on deserts. I would have an ice cream once per week. Now I am likely to enjoy a shake, a frozen custard or ice cream three times/week. Yum!

I also got turned on to the health benefits of dark chocolate last fall, and I’ve been eating 1.5 oz or so of the stuff almost daily. Turns out it has all kinds of anti-oxidants in it. Once you get used to the taste, it does satisfy the sweet tooth. I prefer the Chocolove and Godiva brands. It’s essential that you choose 70% or more cacao to receive health benefits from the chocolate.

So there you have it. Today I weighed in at 175 pounds. I’ve bounced between 172 and 175 for several months. As soon as I see myself creeping upwards, I just reign in it a bit. I’ve actually thought about trying for 165 pounds, but I’m not sure how badly I want it. Besides, winter is coming… packing on a few pounds to stay warm might not be such a bad idea.

I hope this is helpful. Have you been on a fitness or weight-loss journey of your own? Or are you inspired to begin a journey down this road? Please share your experiences and thoughts with me below.