Lillian lost 150 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Lillian lost 150 pounds. This 51 year old mom of two decided to give it her all. She made a committment to working out regularly and discovered a love for running. Check out what she shared with us about releasing the weight.

My name is Lillian Wheat. I’m a 51 year old wife and mother of 2.  I started my fitness/weight loss Journey in November of 2015.

I started this journey with the idea that this was my last ditch effort to lose weight before I would consider some kind of weight loss surgery. I weighed nearly 300 lbs, had medical issues and feared I would die. I decided that I was going to fight for a better life. I wanted a healthier lifestyle.

I started working out at the gym and taking exercise classes. The classes were a huge challenge for me as at that time. I weighed 295 at 5’1″ pounds and could barely move. Even stepping up on a curb was a challenge back then! I remember when we did ab work or anything that required getting on the floor, I had to have help getting back up. Thankfully, the trainer was patient with me. I did what I could just to keep up with the class.

At one point, I became so discouraged that I quit the classes, deciding that I could do it on my own.  Well, that didn’t last long. I ended up returning to the gym again and trying to do every exercise the best I could. The trainer pushed me during our classes, worked with me more on my diet, and gave me other helpful tips (like the proper way to get up off the floor).

I changed my eating habits by getting rid of the processed stuff. I eat lean meats, vegetables, brown rice and sweet potatoes. Over the last two years of this journey, I have used various meal plans using the basics I just mentioned. Of course, I did allow cheat meals occasionally.

I workout 5-6 days a week on average. At least one of those days, you could find me outside with my new found sport of running. Right now, I’m working on running a 10k.

I gained inspiration during the tough times through reading the bible and talking to God. I had the support of my family and from friends that I work out with. I also thought of other things to distract me when I was bored, like reading, crocheting and dance lessons.

Today, I’ve lost 150 pounds! I have come to know myself better and no longer fear my body giving out on me. I have learned what foods my body reacts positively to. I’ve also learned to listen to my body and give it what it needs. I have come to enjoy working out, especially running.

If I had to give any advice it would be to not quit. Consistency is the key!  There may be times that your diet is not what it should be, just regroup and keep going.  Your hard work will pay off in the end.