Update June 2015: “I’ve maintained my weight loss by continuing to surround myself around the group of ladies in my organization, FFW, as well as being mindful of portion control, calorie intake, increase cardio workouts. My mission is to be sure I continue to move forward and not backwards. I’ve tried to maintain good eating habits, by limiting sugars and artificial sweetners, watch my carbohydrate intake, and always be sure to drink my H2O. I try and exercise at least 3-4 times a week an hour to hour 1/2 on those days. I’ve lost an additional 5 pounds since you all last featured me. I’ve increased strength training, I’m now focusing on toning. I’ve instructed several boot camps here in the Houston area. FFW is looking to do big things within the next few years, currently looking for our own space for work out sessions, I’m currently working with a certified fitness instructor to obtain my own fitness/personal trainer certification! I personally understand the struggle first hand of being obese and losing the weight and understand what had to be done and what is necessary to keep the weight off.
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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Michele lost 72 pounds. She took the time to learn about the role of calories in weight loss and committed herself to exercise. Over the last 2 years she has lost the weight and started a great group to help others do the same. Read all about her journey:
Greetings my name is Michele DeRouselle, and I’d like to share my weight loss success story with the group. I begin my weight loss journey nearly 2 years ago. My beginning weight was 254 lbs when I actually stepped on the scale. I was motivated to begin this journey when my son reached his sophomore year in high school. No more football games where I’m out of breath from walking up stairs. No more embarrassment because of my size, it was time to make a difference and take control of my life. It’s taken me almost 2 years to lose 72 pounds, but I wanted to be sure that I was doing this the right way. I’m now weighing in at about 182lbs and life is great. I’ve really gained control of my life, understanding that I must consider my calorie intake. I also exercise regularly at least 5-6 times a week. I’ve now begun weight training with my husband and my work-out buddies.
I totally changed my eating habits, decreasing my calorie intake and understanding that increasing the calories burned were the only way I’d see myself making progress. I cut out fatty foods, soda, sweets, and just understood that this is not a diet it’s a lifestyle change that I’m totally enjoying. I currently replace meals with meal replacement shakes, such as total soy meal replacement. I also drink green smoothies a lot to be sure I’m intaking enough nutrition, i.e. Veggies & fruits. I’ve almost tripled my water intake. When I first began, the only exercise I could really do was just step aerobics and the treadmill. I’m now able to participate in boot camps, 5k runs and really push myself.
This weight loss journey has allowed me to begin my own organization to help women that struggle just as I did, FFW Full Figured Women. The key to weight loss is to have patience, don’t quit, understand it won’t happen overnight. You should also surround yourself with people who want the same as you, so that you are able to encourage and motivate each other. Slow and steady, but I’m winning my race. I’m able to now jog 2-3 miles and not stop, not out of breath and I’m loving every minute of it.
