Ajima Jackson

Arms and Cardio Circuit Workout

June 25, 2015 by Ajima Jackson 4 Comments

Time to WORK your arms and chest. I’ve included videos of the moves below so that you can see proper form. I’d suggest 30 to 45 seconds rest between exercises…but rest more if you need to. Break up the moves as you need to. For example, if you can’t do 12 pushups in a row, do 6 rest for 20-30 sec and then do 6 more.

Do this workout at your own pace and avoid any moves that would irritate old injuries.* Don’t attempt if you have shoulder, rotator cuff or wrist issues. This is a circuit workout so you can do one round or repeat several times to make it a full workout. I think of this as a Beginner/Intermediate workout.

30 Jumping Jacks
12 Pushups
60 Seconds High Knees
30 Seconds Plank
30 Jumping Jacks
30 Mountain Climbers (15 ea. leg)
30 Seconds Side Plank

*Disclaimer: Before starting any exercise program, please consult with your doctor. We cannot be held responsible for any injuries resulting from attempting this exercise routine. If you have injuries that could be worsened, are pregnant, have knee issues, or are suffering neck and back pain, you should speak with a professional trainer about what workouts would be best for you. Do not attempt if you have current injuries, past surgeries or other physical issues/health issues that could be affected by exercise. Don’t forget to stretch before and after working out to avoid injuries.

arms cardio circuit

Sugar Withdrawal: How to identify it and deal with it

June 25, 2015 by Ajima Jackson 2 Comments

sugar withdrawal symptoms You might be surprised to know that sugar is addictive and your sweet tooth cravings could very well be withdrawal symptoms. According to a study featured in a Connecticut College press release, the theory that sugar is just as addictive as illicit drugs like cocaine could very well be true. Sugar has intense effects on the brain, similar to illicit drugs and cigarettes. However, unlike these drugs, sugar is considered a normal part of the American diet.

Similarly to other “drugs”, sugar addiction withdrawals can come in the form of very intense cravings. You may be VERY familiar with that aspect of sugar withdrawal, but let’s go deeper.

Common Sugar Withdrawal Symptoms

Sugar withdrawals can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on how much sugar you consumed on a daily basis. Some withdrawal symptoms you can expect to encounter may include:

Feeling tired despite getting enough sleep
Anxiety
Headaches
Jitteriness and/or Shakiness
Feeling of depression or lack of interest
Difficulty concentrating
Feeling stressed and/or irritable
Anger or bad attitude
Intense cravings for sweets, even when you aren’t hungry

Symptoms will vary from person to person, just as they would with any addictive substance or food you’re trying to kick. Some people may experience some small cravings when they think or see a favorite sugary food while others may get all of these symptoms listed above.

There are medical issues like diabetes and hypoglycemia that affect sugar withdrawal symptoms profoundly. You could be at risk for a serious health crisis if you drastically cut sugar when you have blood sugar issues, so keep that in mind and speak to your doctor before any sugar detox.

Tips for Getting Through Cravings

Keep these tips in mind to help you get through your sugar withdrawals.

Stay Away from Artificial Sweeteners

It is tempting to switch to no-sugar items but these foods with artificial sweeteners are considered by many to be worse than regular sugar. The main problem: The body still thinks it’s getting sugar. Avoid turning to artificial sweeteners as a coping mechanism to get through cravings. If you do, limit your use and work to phase them out. Letting go of one bad habit just to replace it with another bad or worse one isn’t going to help in the long run. Be sure to check labels on processed foods and drinks to ensure there aren’t any artificial sweeteners hidden.

Eat a Piece of Fruit

If you are really craving something sweet, have some fresh fruit. Low sugar fruits like melon, kiwi, oranges and berries are all good choices. Bananas, pineapple, mangos and other high sugar fruits should only be eaten in moderation while you are detoxing from sugar, so keep that in mind. Fruit is healthy and important for your health but it still contains (natural) sugars. Overeating can lead to high blood sugar and tooth decay issues.

Allow a Cheat Item Once Per Week

For some people, being able to look forward to a cheat item at the end of the week works very well. If you feel like it will benefit you and help you stay focused, by all means implement this tip. The cheat item can be a luxury but don’t overdo it. Just because you ate well all week doesn’t mean that your cheat item should be large portions of ice cream, candy, cake etc. Portion size is key. Make sure you’re aware of how many grams of sugar you’re eating. Tip: Don’t store your cheat items at home. Buy it on the day that you plan to eat so you don’t have sugary food just sitting around.

Go for a Run

Exercise will give you a boost of energy and get your mind off of sugar cravings. If you aren’t into running, try to go for a walk, take a Zumba class, use an elliptical machine or even lift some weights. Those of you who seem to have a craving pattern (i.e. tend to crave at the same time every day), try to schedule your workouts at this time.

Purge Your Pantry

This tip is essential if you are struggling with staying away from sugar. Out of sight is out of mind and often times the best way to break your habit is to get rid of all sugars in your house. Whether it’s a pound of white sugar for baking or that pack of cookies in the back of the cabinet, get rid of it all (or remove as much as you can. We know it’s hard for families). Don’t forget about sugary beverages.

Going through sugar withdrawals can be difficult but it will be worth it in the end. It’s important to keep in mind that after you get over your cravings you don’t want to fall back into the habit again. This often occurs when someone eats well for a long time and begins to think they can indulge more often. It’s easy to see where that will lead.

Avoid processed sugars as much as possible, eat plenty of whole foods and get exercise. Keep your treats to a minimum but don’t feel like you are punishing yourself. Keeping sugar to a minimum doesn’t mean you have to completely avoid your favorite sugary foods or always pass on a second piece of cake at a birthday party- use your discretion. If you want to be free of sugar addiction you have to LET IT GO for the most part. Give it 10 days…you won’t miss it.

Updated: Charlena lost more than 60 pounds

June 25, 2015 by Ajima Jackson Leave a Comment

Update Sept 2018: We’ve been following Charlena‘s journey since 2015. She has released more than 60 pounds.

charlena before and after

Starting weight: 250 pounds
Current weight: 185 pounds
Height: 5’3”

I had three kids back to back, and it showed. I’m only 5’3, so that means I was wide. I had to clean up my eating. I’m a snacker, so this was not easy. I had to work out, even when I didn’t feel like it.

After years of going up and down with my weight, I have finally learned that this is a lifestyle change and not something I can do for the moment. Today, I know that I am healthier than I ever was, and I’m so grateful for that. My children are my motivation. I get to look a lot better too… that’s a plus.

Jan 2016: Charlena has added weight lifting to her routine. She’s lost a total of 75 pounds since June 2015.

charlena before and after

June 2015: Weight Loss Story of the Day: Charlena lost 59 pounds. Her story parallels millions of women who have lost weight, gained it back… only to repeat that classic yo-yo dieting cycle. In 2014, she broke the cycle and found a way of living that allowed her to release the weight. Check out her story.

charlena before and after

My height: 5’2″
Starting weight: 240 pounds
Current weight: 181 pounds

I first decided to lose weight in November 2012. I finally decided to step on the scale, and I weighed about 240 pounds. I was so hurt that I had let myself go. I wondered if my family and friends loved me because no one told me that I was that big. …and Yes, my first attempt to lose weight was not successful.

Then I decided to do some research on exercise and things that I could eat to try to motivate myself to get the weight off finally. The second time around, I was more successful, but my weight loss did not last. The biggest problem for me was trying to figure out how to eat better. If it was full of sugar, calories, and carbs, I loved it.

After having 3 kids, like stair steps, I needed to change. In 2014 I started my weight loss journey again, and for the first time, I was very successful. The one thing that I completely cut out of my diet was soda. I started to eat more fruit, more vegetables, more salads and I drank a lot more water.

Walking became my best friend. Later, I went from walking to jogging lightly. Now I do different exercises that I never thought that I would see myself do.

Not only did I want to lose weight but I also wanted body definition and a lean, toned look. I walk, jog, do squats and lift weights. I do crunches and jumping jacks too. I rarely go to the gym. I do the majority of these exercises right at home using furniture in my apartment.

My advice for other: The one thing you have to understand about losing weight is that it is never easy and it’s always going to be a struggle, but it can be done. Never give up!

charlena weight loss

Oct 2015 Update – Charlena lost 8 more pounds for a total of 67 pounds gone: “Still working hard! 8 more pounds down! I know you can’t see my face, but lifting weights changed my life. I thought that cardio alone would do the trick. It really helped but when I started to lift, that’s when I saw the transformation. My body was a mess. I felt hopeless but now I’m more motivated then ever.”

charlena before and after

Star lost 136 pounds with surgery

June 24, 2015 by Ajima Jackson 2 Comments

Weight Loss Transformation of Day: Star lost 136 pounds with surgery. After seeing her family ravaged by the effects of diabetes and dealing with the loss of her father, she decided that she had to change. She opted for weight loss surgery. Now she’s changed her lifestyle, her eating habits and is an avid runner. Here is what she shared with us about her journey…

star before and after

My name is Star T. and I would like to share my story. Diabetes has plagued my family. I lost my grandmother, grandfather, and my father (who raised me as a single dad) to complications related to diabetes. All three family members had renal failure and had to attend dialysis. In 2012 is when I lost my father and I knew I had to make a change otherwise I was looking at the same fate. I used to be against weight loss surgery but decided to check out my options. After getting educated about the options and doing my own research I opted for the gastric sleeve surgery. I had the procedure done on May 24th, 2013. It was the best decision I had ever made. My highest weight was 320 pounds and I currently weigh 184 pounds so I’ve lost 136 pounds. I’m 5 feet, 6 inches tall. I just celebrated my 2 year anniversary of having weight loss surgery on May 23rd.

star running Prior to surgery, I would exercise but not nearly enough to be considered active. Now I work out 7 to 8 times a week doing “boot camp” style exercises. I also belong to the local Black Girls Run! chapter here in Sacramento which promotes healthier lifestyles and being active. Since losing weight, I have completed several 5k races (running them, not walking). I have set a goal of completing my first half marathon in October. I’ve also inspired my family to get healthier and make better choices when it comes to food. Weight loss surgery isn’t cheating. It’s a tool and it’s up to you to use it properly.

With weight loss surgery, eating is very restricted and that forces you to have to change your eating habits. I mostly consume protein, vegetables, and fruit. I’ve cut out a lot of carbs such as rice, potatoes, pastas, and bread. I do consume them but not as frequently as I used to prior to surgery. I never was a big soda drinker so that wasn’t hard for me to cut out. I’ve incorporated meal prepping, so on Sundays I will meal prep for the week and that usually consists of some type of protein like chicken breasts or ground turkey meat, a vegetable like sautéed spinach or broccoli, and usually a baked yam or quinoa. I find that meal prepping saves me from making bad choices. It’s an everyday struggle choosing the right foods to eat especially working in an office setting where there are lots of temptations.

Instagram: @starzee78

LaTroya lost 34 pounds

June 23, 2015 by Ajima Jackson 2 Comments

Weight Loss Story: LaTroya lost 34 pounds. After getting a serious wake up call via the words of her child, this mom was determined to lose the pounds. She’s been losing the weight since March 2015 by reducing her calories and using a prescription appetite suppressant. Here is what she shared with us…

latroya before and after

Hello! My name is LaTroya. I have just recently started my weight loss journey (March 1st 2015-Present). I began my weight loss journey after gaining over 90 pounds after my last pregnancy (6 years ago). Pre-pregnancy, I weighed 167 lbs at 5’6″ tall. My highest weight was 261 pounds. While getting dressed one day, my child asked, “Mommy, will I be fat like you when I grow up”? That was my official breaking point. Internally I was already miserable, but now my weight had become an issue for my child. I knew I had to do something!

In March of this year, I saw a bariatric specialist. He stated that my BMI was not high enough for any sort of weight loss surgery, and that with diet, exercise, and phentermine 37.5 [prescription drug], I could be successful. In the past 90 days, I have eaten baked chicken, fish, and shrimp as my primary sources of protein. I do not consume ANY liquid calories or carbohydrates. I also have increased my vegetable intake, and I have not had any fast food up to this point. My target caloric intake is 1200 daily, or less. I know it may seem extreme for some, but its a small sacrifice in comparison to the results that I’ve seen thus far. I drink 120 ounces of water daily, and have yet to start to work out!

My current weight is 227 pounds. That’s 34 pounds GONE in less than 3 months! I plan to start exercising at the beginning of June, and will continue my journey until I hit my target of 160 pounds! I’m relatively new to this journey of mine, but BLACK WOMEN LOSING WEIGHT HAS BEEN A MAJOR MOTIVATOR for me! My only advice is to stay encouraged, and remember that the sacrifice is NOTHING in comparison to the Reward! Stay Blessed!

Instagram: @BEAUTIFUL_BEYOND_IT

latroya weight loss

Eat More Healthy Fiber to Lose Pounds

June 23, 2015 by Ajima Jackson Leave a Comment

eat more fiber Fiber is a super important nutrient that primarily affects digestive health. Unfortunately, the average American’s diet is lacking in fiber. The typical woman in this country only consuming around 15 grams when she should be consuming at least 30 grams. That’s the average. Many people are eating far less.

Aside from general health, there is another reason fiber is so important. It can help you lose weight and maintain a healthy weight! Check out this info, which includes our top 10 fiber picks.

Fiber and Weight Loss

There have been a few studies done on the subject of fiber and its effect on weight. One main study featured in Nutrition Reviews had results that showed participants who ate just 14 grams more of fiber per day lost 4 lbs in 3.8 months. Keep in mind that this result was from only changing fiber intake, nothing else. That is very impressive.

Another study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine confirmed that participants that ate 30 grams of fiber a day with no other dietary changes lost an average of 4.6 lbs. Additionally, those who made further changes and switched to the American Heart Association (AHA) diet lost an average of 6 lbs. The AHA diet is stricter but if you are at risk of diabetes and are overweight, it could be a very good option for you.

Eating more fiber isn’t just as simple as reading labels. There is more to fiber than people realize.

Insoluble vs Soluble Fibers

Did you know that there are actually two types of dietary fiber? Insoluble and soluble fibers are both important for overall health but they do perform different functions in the body. As the terms suggest, insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve in liquid while soluble fiber will dissolve. The ability to either dissolve or not dictates what benefits you’ll receive.

Despite common misconceptions, soluble fiber is the type that will make you feel full. The reason for this is that this fiber essentially gels when it meets liquid in the stomach. This process make your digestive system slow down which in turn is very beneficial for those who need help controlling insulin levels for their diabetes. There is also speculation that people can lower their bad cholesterol (LDL) by eating more soluble fiber.

You may have been told previously by a doctor, family member or friend to “eat more fiber” when you have trouble going to the bathroom. The fiber that is well-known for helping constipation is insoluble fiber. Essentially insoluble fiber creates the opposite effect of soluble fiber: soluble fibers slow everything down while insoluble fiber helps the digestive tract get everything out. In fact, too much soluble fiber can cause constipation. Insoluble fiber is also essential for maintaining healthy gut bacteria. Insoluble fiber doesn’t break down in water and passes through the system more intact.

Both insoluble and soluble fiber foods should be eaten on a regular basis. With a healthy diet rich in whole foods, getting enough of both fibers isn’t difficult.

10 Delicious Sources of Fiber

You don’t need to drink or eat tasteless, and sometimes expensive, supplements to get your daily intake of fiber. Whole foods not only provide the dietary fiber every woman needs but they also offer many other nutrients that you won’t get from a supplement.

There are many sources of fiber, but these 10 foods not only taste great but also contain the fiber you need to support a healthy digestive system.

Apples- Soluble

Apples are also a great source of soluble fiber and are a good snack for those with weight loss goals. Eating a typical medium apple will give you 4.4 grams of fiber as well as vitamin A, C and B-6. You will also get magnesium and iron. Apples are fairly high in natural sugars (around 19 grams) so limit yourself if you are trying to lose weight.

Dates – Insoluble

Being an insoluble fruit, dates are a great way to get some fiber as well as some sweetness. Dates are actually so sweet (93g in 1 cup!) that they work very well in smoothies and other meals as a replacement for sugar. Dates contain 12 grams of fiber in one cup and also are a good source of protein, with around 3.6 grams. Dates are super low in fat and packed with potassium, calcium, vitamin B-6, iron and magnesium. Buy a pack the next time you’re at the grocery store.

Raspberries and Blackberries – Soluble

Both of these berries are packed with antioxidants that promote overall health. They are very similar in nutrients with one cup of each both being around 8 grams in fiber. Blackberries are a little sweeter so they are higher in calories but not by much. Raspberries contain higher amounts of vitamins C and B-6 while blackberries are higher in vitamin A, calcium, iron and magnesium. Since both fruits are so similar, mixing and matching will help you get enough vitamins from both.

Wheat Bran – Insoluble

Wheat bran is a huge source of insoluble fiber with 60 grams in one cup. It is also a good source of protein, thiamine, magnesium and iron. Wheat bran can be treated like a cereal, either hot like oatmeal or cold in milk. Since wheat bran is so high in fiber it is extremely filling and a true “secret weapon” for those who are trying to lose weight but often feel hungry.

Kale – Insoluble

Like many dark leafy greens, kale is essential for good health. It is packed with a ridiculous amount of vitamins (133% of vitamin A and 134% vitamin C) as well as iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium. One cup of chopped kale has roughly 3 grams of fiber and protein. Raw kale leaves put into a green smoothie and baby kale is great in salads as it doesn’t have the bitter flavor of mature plants. If you find you have stomach trouble with raw kale, try cooking it first.

Butternut Squash – Insoluble

Butternut squash can usually easily be found in the grocery store and tastes delicious- somewhat like pumpkin. It can be cooked in many ways and even mashed as a substitute for potatoes. One cup of butternut squash has 2.8 grams of fiber and 63 calories. It is high in potassium, iron and magnesium. It is also well-known for being super high vitamin A with a level of almost 300%.

Lentils – Soluble

Lentils contain both soluble and insoluble fiber but are higher in the former. Though lower in fiber than other foods listed (around 1g in 1tbsp) it is still high in other nutrients. Even small amounts are very filling and you can easily use this food as an addition to warm foods like soups.

Sesame Seeds – Insoluble

Sesame seeds are quite popular in Asian cuisine but are very versatile. They are tasty toasted and raw and can easily be used as a fiber-boost addition to meals like salads. One tablespoon of sesame seeds contains 1.1 grams of fiber and 1.6 grams of protein. These seeds are also high in calcium, magnesium and iron.

Kiwi – Soluble

These sweet green fruits are small but pack a nutrient punch with 106% vitamin C and 2.1 grams of fiber. They are fairly low in sugar, 6 grams, so they are a good fruit for people trying to lose weight. Kiwi is high in enzymes similar to pineapple so consuming multiple fruits can have your tongue to feel irritated.

Fiber is a super important part of a good diet yet often overlooked when other nutrients like protein take precedence. Whether you are trying to lose weight, struggling to keep under your daily calorie limit or just are experiencing digestive problems, eating more of the foods featured here and others will help you get the results you are looking for.

Danielle lost 61 pounds

June 23, 2015 by Ajima Jackson 3 Comments

Weight Loss Transformation of the Day: Danielle lost 61 pounds. This proud mom transformed her body with healthy eating and strength training. Now she is a trainer and a NPC Pro Figure Competitor. Here is what she shared with us about how she did it…

danielle before and after

What was your motivation?
To be honest, I was a singe black mom tried of being single. I wanted to become the best confident person I could be and that started with loving myself inside and out. My weight loss journey began in March 2011 after the birth of my son. My son inspired me. To be healthy and happy was what I needed to do. I also began teaching Zumba as I started losing my weight and my students inspired me to keep going. Last year I came across an African American body builder who told me I was a queen and gave me the confidence to now reach my new goal of becoming a Pro Figure Competitor Fitness Athlete.

How did you change your eating habits?
I stopped eating fried foods and fast food. I changed my portion sizes, gave up red meat, switched to organic foods and I cook fresh produce as much as I can. I also began to educate myself on reading and understanding labels.

What did your workout routines look like?
I work out 6 to 7 days a week on bodybuilding structure as I’m getting ready for figure competitions. Mixed in is cardio kickboxing, Zumba and outdoor stuff for fun.

What was your starting weight and current weight? I got to 215 pounds while pregnant and I weighed 189 pounds right after he was born. Right now, I weigh 128 pounds (138 lbs when my body fat is at 12%) I’m 5’6″ tall. I initially got down from 189 lbs to 145 lbs with in 6 months after my son’s birth and just dropped the rest with in the 5 months for my show. I also built 6 lbs of lean muscle.

What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
You have to be consistent and keep going. This life changing journey takes times so if your patient it will happen.

Instagram: @Daniellefitness

danielle weight loss

Thighs So Toned Workout

June 22, 2015 by Ajima Jackson 1 Comment

For this Thigh-focused workout we’ve put together some great moves to tone the thigh muscles. The size and shape of your thighs, as well as how your body releases weight in that area will be effected by genetics, but exercise can help you tone and tighten.

I’ve included videos of the moves below so that you can see proper form. I’d suggest 30 to 45 seconds rest between exercises…but rest more if you need to. Do this workout at your own pace and avoid any moves that would irritate old injuries, knee/leg problems or back problems.* This is a circuit workout so you can do one round or repeat several times to make it a full workout. I think of this as a Beginner/Intermediate workout.

60 Second High Knees or Walk in Place
20 Squat to Side Kick (10 ea. leg)
30 Second Wall Sit
10 Leg Raises
20 Squats
30 Second Wall Sit
16 Lunges (8 ea leg)
20 Squats
60 Second High Knees or Walk in Place

*Disclaimer: Before starting any exercise program, please consult with your doctor. We cannot be held responsible for any injuries resulting from attempting this exercise routine. If you have injuries that could be worsened, are pregnant, have knee issues, or are suffering neck and back pain, you should speak with a professional trainer about what workouts would be best for you. Don’t forget to stretch before and after working out to avoid injuries.

thighs so toned workout

Betina lost 124 pounds

June 22, 2015 by Ajima Jackson 8 Comments

Weight Loss Transformation of the Day: Betina lost 124 pounds. At 415 pounds, she broke free from an abusive marriage and changed her life. She was motivated by her love for her children. Here is what she shared with us about her weight loss journey…

betina before and after

Hello, my name is Benita and I use to weigh 415 pounds and I wore a size 34 pants. Through healthy eating, lifestyle changes and exercise, I now weigh 291 pounds and wear a size 22 pants! This journey started in 2010 and is still an on going life change. My children motivate me and keep me going! This has not been easy. I love Chocolate and come from New Orleans, LA where we Love to eat. So, this has been a challenge but it’s so worth it. I encourage anyone and everyone to get on the path to a healthy lifestyle cause it’s worth it!

My two Children Kyle and Whitney motivated me because I didn’t want them to have to go through the struggle of fighting obesity their whole life. Even though I was married to their dad at the time, that marriage later ended do to abuse and adultery. I knew one day I would have to have the strength and energy to leave, and there was no way I could do that at 415 Lbs. Not because of the weight it self, but because my body had become like a WALKING COFFIN. There was a younger, happier and healthier me inside with a sculptor’s knife trying to chisel her way out.

One night when my ex-husband stayed out all night and kept the keys to my vehicle. I had no way to get my babies to school or to get myself to work. Feeling ashamed and broken, I didn’t call any of my family because they had warned me about marrying him. I got up that morning and got a Winn Dixie Grocery Basket and left at 5 am walking. My children’s school was about four miles away and I got there right at 8 am. Hair wet and sweaty, my children made it to school for breakfast and their teacher didn’t ask questions. She got someone to cover for her class and brought me to work. From that day and that moment I knew that if God had given me that strength to push them to school he would get me much further. I started regularly walking and haven’t stopped.

The first month on my journey I removed carbs and sugar completely out of my diet. That worked and the weight fell off fast. 10, then 15, then 40 pounds. I soon realized that how you loose it is how you must maintain it. I yo-yo’d for a while, but finally after two years I learned to eat in small portions and practice moderation with the sweets and carbs. I also learned to incorporate some form of exercise daily if no more than 30 minutes a day. Now, I weigh 291 lbs and I can wear a size 20-22 pants comfortably, with no girdle or waist shrinker. I am 5’9″ tall and yes, the Doctor still says that I am Morbidity Obese by the health guidelines that they have been using for over 100 years and REFUSE to change.

Now, I do Zumba two-three times a week with Dr. Kendra Mayes and I walk at least 30 minutes to 1 hour every day with a coworker or on my treadmill at home. My diet is a life change and each month I challenge myself. Last month was MeatLess May and I allowed myself to have salmon, shrimp and veggies. Now, I have sherbert instead of ice cream and crystal light instead of soda and diet soda. I recently got off MONSTER energy drinks. I teach school and was convinced I needed more ENERGY! Luckily, I have kicked that habit and didn’t gain weight do to my sugar intake with that.

My advice to any and everyone is “Your Body is a Temple from God and he sees the Size of the Heart not your Body. Let’s get Heart Healthy so we can please God!” As you focus on him, not a man and not trying to be his size her size or that size, your weight will fall off. Thank you and God Bless. Let’s All Get Moving!

betina weight loss

Andreshia lost 20 pounds

June 21, 2015 by Ajima Jackson 1 Comment

Andreshia wrote in to let us know that she’s lost 20 pounds with healthy eating and by stepping up the intensity of her workouts. Here is what she shared with us…

andreshia before and after

I found my motivation in simply saying one day, ” I will not keep starting over”. I always worked out but my diet was the worst. I was on Instagram and saw grandmothers who looked better than me in a bikini. I told myself that I had no excuse to be this way since I had no children.

So, I started eating clean, watching my macros (counting macronutrients) and watching what time I ate. Again, I use to going to the gym, so I started to make my workouts count. I began HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training), CARDIO and incline walks on the treadmill. I hit the gym 4-5 times a week.

I’m 5’4″ tall and started at 176 pounds. Now, I weigh 155 pounds. I lost 20 pounds in 6 weeks. I’m on my way to my goal weight of abs. 🙂 My advice for people who want to lose weigh is to stay consistent and plan ahead with your meals and gym schedule.

Instagram: @sheroinme

Ajima Jackson

Arms and Cardio Circuit Workout