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Jaianne lost 82 pounds

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Weight Loss Transformation of the Day: Jaianne lost 82 pounds. Two years ago, she decided that enough was enough. It was time to be happier and healthier.  She took action by working out at home and changing her eating habits.  Now, she is sharing her results with us…

jaianne before and after

Starting weight: 257 pounds
Current weight: 175 pounds
I started my journey in May of 2013.

I’ve lost 82 pounds. Two years ago, I knew I wasn’t happy. Not just with my looks but with myself in general. I decided then I was going to make some changes in my life. I started to become healthier by surrounding myself with people who motivated me and helped me. I set goals for myself, took action and became happier.

I first joined Beachbody that summer and with help of my coach at the time I was able to change my eating habits. I cut out eating fast food and changed to eating more veggies and protein. I workout 5 to 6 times a week doing various at home workouts like Turbo Fire. I barely go to the gym, but I do have a gym membership. I also do walking, running and yoga. I’ve lost weight but my journey hasn’t ended yet. I’m happy to say that I haven’t gone back to the way I was and I won’t go back.

I just wanted to share my progress with you all. No matter what current state you are, you can become happy with yourself. You just need to make some changes. You need to believe in yourself and know that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. I am a living proof of that. Am I done? No, but I am very happy with the progress I have made over the years. As you can see in my pictures, you can achieve what ever you put your mind too. #livehappylivehealthy I hope this motivates YOU to change.

Instagram: @livehappylivehealthy1

Audrey lost 70 pounds

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Weight Loss Transformation of the Day: Audrey lost 70 pounds.  This proud mom of three saw her health declining and was afraid of not being able to see her daughters thrive in the future.  She saw her cousin lose weight with an online coach and decided to try the program.  Now, she’s won a recent transformation contest held by her coach. Here is what she shared with us about her weight loss journey…

audrey weight loss

What was your motivation? What inspired you?
I have three amazing daughters. As my weight continued to increase, my health continued to decline (high blood pressure, arthritis, bad knees, bad back). My daughter Jada joked that she would soon be pushing me in a wheelchair. I was terrified that I would not be around to see what wonderful things they would do very far into the future. Not to mention, I felt that I had so much more to offer in this world, yet was squandering my blessings. Also, I was inspired by seeing the outstanding progress my cousin Deborah Harvin had made in her own health journey (Deborah lost 113 pounds). That roused me from my self-induced coma.

How did you change your eating habits? What did you stop or start eating?
Thanks to my coach Wiltrina Jones, owner of I Use to Be U, I started eating six clean meals a day. I stopped eating a lot of fast food, restaurant food, processed food, and junk. I started eating a variety of easily accessible healthy and fresh foods.

What did your workout routines look like?
I did weight training and cardio. I attended boot camp for comradery and variety. I lifted free weights, worked out with a weight vest. I also did body weight exercises, like burpees, pushups, squats and lunges.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
When I first started losing weight in February 2014, I weighed 255 pounds. In September, that’s when I started with IUTBU and I weighed 239 pounds. Now I weigh at 185 pounds. My height is 5’ 8”.

How long did your transformation take?
I started trying to lose weight in February 2014. However, I didn’t get serious until September 2014. So, about 15 months, all together.

What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
Take the time to value yourself. It is so easy to get caught up with work, home, family and everything else. I know that I focused on everything else to avoid dealing with me, my issues and my problems. Do it for you.

Farah lost 39 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Farah lost 39 pounds and lowered her body fat by 13%. Stress, eating on the job and post pregnancy weight gain led this mom of 3 to the point where she had to make a change.  She connected with the right coach and found a program that works for her.  Check out this interview about her weight loss journey…

farah before and after

NEARLY 40lbs DOWN and I FEEL FREE!
“How I feel now vs when I was my biggest……. “I feel free :)”. I feel much more confident and at peace with myself although not at MY ideal weight I feel comfortable in any given situation which would have previously left me insecure or uncomfortable.”

In just a few months she has…

– Reduced her Weight by 39lbs
– Cut 51 inches from various parts of her body
– Lowered her Body Fat by 13%
– Dropped her dress size from 16 to 10

THE INTERVIEW

What was your light bulb moment that made you decide to get your health in order and/or lose some weight? Did you think you were overweight?

None of my family members are overweight or obese and I have always been curvy, but never ever as large as I had gotten. Following the birth of my 3rd child, I gradually began to gain weight back that I had dropped after having him. That was 5 to 6 years ago. My position changed at work 4 years ago and that REALLY escalated my weight gain. The transiency in my job encouraged frequent stops at restaurants and fast food establishments and I saw the impact immediately.

Have you always been overweight? If not, how long have you been overweight? When did you notice you started to gain weight?

I knew I was overweight, and I HATED it, but I had very little success reducing my weight independently since my 3rd child. It took a few years for me to really get serious and become committed to losing the weight. My 35th birthday was a turning point. Although my goal was not to be “X” weight by my birthday I wanted to feel as though I was addressing my weight by that point so I began to look for options to help me in my journey.

How did you end up working w/ Body Refined? 

A college friend, Bonita (Featured on Black Women Losing Weight), referred me Body Refined and the experience has been excellent!

Most people are reluctant to get online coaching because they think it’s all about having a “trainer” to push them hard in the gym. Were you at all skeptical about getting help remotely (online coaching)?

Since Bonita had worked with the program and been successful, I felt fairly confident that if I followed the plan I would meet success. I was fearful/reluctant about what “following the program” meant. I did not want to eat something unrealistic or unsustainable. I was pleased that most of the foods were foods that I could eat and the foods I either never ate before or didn’t like, I eventually acquired a taste for. So, I basically “followed the program” and it worked.

How are your eating habits now versus before? Do you still eat out?
Well, now I am eating more frequently whereas before I would go an entire day without eating. At least without eating a meal. I would snack throughout the day or sometimes not at all. I would get something on the way home as I picked up the kids from after school activities. Working with Kurt, I learned how to prepare my meals for the day. I make sure to eat my breakfast before I leave the house and I try not to leave the house without ALL my meals for the day to include dinner, even on the weekends. I do this just so that I can be sure to eat on time. I never realized how much of a difference that could make on my body in terms of how I feel and of course how I look.
I don’t eat out as often as I did before. I never realized how “unhealthy” restaurant food is until Kurt explained it to me and I started to pay more attention to my body after I did eat out. It was not a good feeling. Especially after eating clean all week on the plan. If I do eat out, I am very conscious of what I order and it is real easy to see how much I should or shouldn’t be eating because with everything I have learned, I can just about visually determine the portion sizes that work for me.

Thus far in your journey, has it been difficult… challenging… or what would you call it?

This entire journey working with Kurt has been both enlightening and encouraging. Not difficult but just shocking the impact of what the foods you eat can have on your body’s digestion. I never really ate crazy but I wasn’t aware of any healthy alternatives so the journey has been enlightening.

During this process, what have you learned thus far?

Prioritizing and consumption has stood out to me throughout the process. Neither of which I would have previously felt had a huge impact on my weight loss. I thought I ate ok and I had the appropriate amount of calories to lose so why wasn’t the weight coming off.

Have you ever tried to lose weight before? If so, what was the difference in what you did this time vs other plans or programs you tried before?

I’ve found that any program can be successful if you stick to it. The difference with this program is that it’s sustainable. It truly is an adjustment in your lifestyle and as far as food. It’s just regular food that I buy at the grocery store. Kurt taught me more about how to eat for ME and how to shop vs. eating one specific thing.

What kind of support, if any, did you get from family and friends? And in contrast, did you experience any negativity from friends and family?

My family was supportive throughout the process although they continue to eat crazy. They are encouraged by my choices and at times experiment with my meal selections.

How would you describe and/or rate your experience vs what you have done in the past?

I think the largest difference for me is that I feel this is much more sustainable as long as I continue to execute the same philosophy and eat foods encouraged while on the program.

The difference in working with Kurt (Health Coach/Consultant) vs a trainer or even a nutritionist is that a traditional “trainer” is much more focused on the physical exercise aspect. Although Kurt stressed the importance of exercise, this experience focused more on what I was putting into my body and how I functioned throughout the day, sleep, water, etc… My whole lifestyle.

Would you recommend anyone to Body Refined? If so, what would be the deciding factor on your decision to refer someone to Body Refined?

My experience was excellent but I wouldn’t just refer just anyone. As long as they were serious about changing their lifestyle because it is not just about eating clean and exercising.

What advice would you give someone who wants to lose weight/improve their health?

The advice is would give someone who wants lose weight/improve their health. It is not just as simple as 80% nutrition and 20% exercise. There is more to it than that – Call Kurt!

Farah’s trainer: Kurt Dixon, CPT HFS
facebook.com/bodyrefinedinc
Instagram: @bodyrefinedinc

Ayada lost 57 pounds

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Update Aug 2020: Ayada has maintained her weight loss of 57 pounds since we featured her back in 2015. Bravo.

Ayada before and after

My current weight is 210 pounds, and I have maintained my weight loss. I am working out Monday thru Thursday and walking daily (at least five miles). I eat fruit during the week, and I have small proportions when I eat dinner. I also work out on the weekends by doing five miles.

I am on a mission, and my health and lifestyle are very important to me. My goal is to lose 20 more pounds.

My advice for women who want to lose weight is to stay focused and motivated. Eat healthy and work out daily. @ayadaingram96

Ayada before and after

Weight Loss Story of the Day: Ayada lost 57 pounds. This Delta Sigma Theta Soror decided that it was time to get healthy and commit to living a long, active life with her daughter.  Here is what she shared with us about her journey…

ayada weight loss

What was your motivation?
My motivation was my daughter and improving my health. I had to get healthy and change my life so that I could be there for her. I want to make sure she stays fit as well. I was also inspired by looking at my friends who were losing weight.

My daughter and my mother motivated me to workout and to get my blood pressure and high cholesterol down. I also got tired of people asking me if was I pregnant because I did look like it at the time. Now, my health has improved, and I know I will be here for my daughter for a long time.

How did you change your eating habits?
I started drinking meal replacement shakes, eating three times of day and stopped eating fried foods. I used Body by Vi shakes, the Military Diet, and green smoothies.

What did your workout routines look like?
I work out every day, including the weekends.  For exercise, you will find me in the gym, going walking, doing Zumba or kickboxing.

What was your starting weight? 276 pounds

What is your current weight? 219 pounds (height: 5’3″ tall) I went from a size 26 to a size 14. Now, I can be more active with my daughter. Also, my blood pressure and cholesterol are under control. I feel better, and my self-esteem has improved.

How long did your transformation take? 1 1/2 years

What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
To stick with it and never give up because you can do it.

Instagram: @ayadaingram96

Oct 2018: Ayada lost 83 pounds and she’s kept the weight off. We asked her to share how she’s maintained her success.

Ayada before and after

“I have maintained my weight loss by working out daily and jogging on the track. I also take boot camp and Total Toning classes, Monday thru Thursday. I also work out on Saturday and Sunday. My only break is on Fridays. In terms of my eating habits, I am still on the Military Diet three days a week.  

My advice for others are on this journey is to stay focused, motivated and dedicated to your goal. Set your goal and stick with it. If your diet isn’t working, try another method. Also, cut back on you portion sizes and drink lots of water daily.”

Ayada before and after

ayada weight loss

Update: May 2016 – Ayada lost 34 more pounds, since we shared her story in August 2015. That’s a total of 83 pounds released (current weight: 185 lbs)

ayada before and after

Alicia lost 42 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Alicia lost 42 pounds. Tired of increasing clothing sizes, hiding her stomach and a poor eating habits, she decided that enough was enough.  Making the decision to embrace healthy, balanced meals and exercise has helped her understand that weight loss can be easier than we make it out to be.  She shared her story and some great advice with us…

alicia before and after

Growing up as a young woman, I never really looked at myself as being ‘fat.’ I knew that I was overweight from the number on the scale and according to BMI, but when I looked in the mirror I didn’t see 180 pounds in front of me. It wasn’t until my sophomore of college that I really saw my weight getting out of hand. However, this still didn’t entirely motivate me to lose weight. My friends and I would go to the gym here and there, but I still had a poor diet. When I would go shopping, I realized that my clothing size kept going up and I really hated looking at my stomach. I was always finding ways to hide it. I then decided that enough was enough and I became fully dedicated to my weight loss journey in January of 2013.

I felt as if I’d made progress after 3 months of starting my weight loss journey. I couldn’t see the pounds coming off but I remember people telling me that I looked as if I had lost weight. I would lose 2 lbs here or 5 lbs there, but when I lost my first 30 pounds after starting out at 210 pounds, I was ecstatic. I was more focused than ever before and determined to make losing weight a lifestyle. Currently, I am weigh 168 pounds.

After a period of working out and eating healthy, I came to the conclusion that losing weight isn’t as hard as we make it seem. Anyone can lose weight but that really separates those who succeed from those who don’t is willpower. The ability to get back up after you’ve fallen and remaining dedicated to the process. This was one of the most challenging aspects of my journey that I had to deal with along with being persistent and self-motivated. We live in a world that continually bombards us with images and videos of unhealthy foods.  These things only help to increase the obesity epidemic in the world. One has to decide whether to give into that temptation or not to. In addition, when you’re on a budget you’re faced with the decision to buy a salad that’s costs about $7/$8 vs. a hamburger that goes for $1. Choosing to eat healthy and having the willpower to remain focused on one’s journey is really hard. This I found came with self-motivation, remembering why you started and making healthier food swaps.

alicia weight lossMy advice to others on their own fitness journey is to eat in moderation but know when to say No. One should incorporate cheat days and times where he or she is able to let loose a little and enjoy the journey without being so caught up on how many calories that donut has. At the end of the day, you can lose as much weight as you want, but if you still aren’t happy, then is it really worth it? I choose to live a life of happiness and the freedom to do whatever I want. More advice as it relates to diet and exercise:

1. Examine where you are now and where you want to be. What is your goal weight and how do you plan on achieving this? This initial step is very important as it will help to keep you on track. You’ll always want to go back here in hopes of remembering why you started.

2. Understand that losing weight does not happen overnight. What you put in is what you get out. I’ve seen so many people say they’re going to lose weight but the next time I see them, but they’re eating something that’s not reflective of what their goal is. Losing weight is all in what you eat: 80% diet, 20% exercise. You can’t expect to lose weight after you’ve spent a great amount of time in the gym if right after that you go for a hamburger and fries. Instead choose a lean meat, any cruciferous vegetable, and a complex carb that will keep you satiated and won’t spike your insulin levels.

3. Implement a good exercise routine into your daily regimen. Along with a clean diet and loads of water, 10-20 mins of cardio preferably High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and resistance training will help one to lose fat while building muscle. Incorporating these three things along with a good amount of sleep and rest into one’s weight loss journey will help tremendously in shedding that excess body fat.

If you need more motivation or personal advice, please feel free to email at: aliciafitsique@gmail.com and follow me on my social media accounts at:
Instagram: @aliciacandiece @myownfitsique  New Instagram: @mindbody180
Facebook: Mind Body 180
Website: www.myownfitsique.com

Lisa lost 112 pounds

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Weight Loss Transformation of the Day: Lisa lost 112 pounds. This petite mom wanted to be a healthier example for her children, so she took action by changing her eating habits and exercising.  Here is what she shared with us about her weight loss journey…

lisa before and after

I officially started my journey in February of 2012. At the time, I weighed 277 pounds (5’3″ tall). My current weight is 165 pounds. My motivation was looking in the mirror and not being with happy with the person staring back at me. I knew that I owed it to myself and my children to treat my body better than I was treating it. I also wanted to set a healthy example for my kids.

I started out by cutting back on carbs and fried foods. Then, I added lots of fruits and vegetables to my diet. I also cut out all beverages except milk and started drinking lots of water. When I initially started, my only form of exercise was walking. I walked on my breaks at work and after dinner around my neighborhood, five to six days a week. After about a year, I was down 70 lbs, but then I hit a plateau. In February of last year I joined the gym and incorporated weight training into my routine. The rest of the weight came off after that. Not to mention that I toned up, have added definition in some areas and have accentuated my curves. Ladies, don’t be afraid to lift!

My advice to others is that anything is possible if you believe in yourself. You’ve got to want to make a change and stick with it. You’ll have bad days, but I guarantee that the good will outweigh the bad. Don’t beat yourself up too bad on those bad days because you are human. As long as you pick yourself up and keep pushing, that is all that matters.

If you are interested, you can follow my journey on Instagram: @fit_ariez510

Daphne lost 35 pounds

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Weight Loss Story: Daphne lost 35 pounds.  The unexpected passing of her mother led her to the path of greater wellness and fitness. Here is what she shared with us about her weight loss journey…

daphne before and after

What was your motivation?
My mother passed away unexpectedly. She was a morbid obese woman who had some health issues, but they where under control. Her death really motivated me to change for the better. I want to be able to live long enough to see my children’s children and beyond. I was then and still am inspired by those who I’ve seen transform. One in particular is my coach, Ms. Wiltrina Jones. She is very motivational and has a passion in helping people transform if they really want it.>

How did you change your eating habits?
I first cut out soda and did strictly water. I then cut all snacks to a bare minimum, but now I have cut them out completely. If I craved sweets, I would eat fruit. Currently, I eat more vegetables, still drink only water and I don’t eat any fried food. For protein, I eat egg whites, chicken and fish. If I want to have a hamburger I’ll make one with ground turkey.

What did your workout routines look like?
I am in the gym no less than 2 hours doing a circuit training that consists of cardio and free weights. I may take a Zumba class or spin class every now and then. I like to maximize my time so, I rather do total gym workout. I work out at least 6 days a week, and I have now started to burn 1000+ calories within the time frame that I’m at the gym.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 245 pounds and now I weigh 210.4 pounds. (height: 5’6″ tall) Just restarted my efforts and I’m going hard with a coach. I’ve seen great results as far as inches and fat loss within the last 50+ days.

What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
I would say that if you want it you will have to have a made up mind. Be consistent and push yourself when you feel like giving up. Work to stay on track even when others try to influence you. Always remember that on your journey it’s always YOU against YOU. There is no room for excuses.

Instagram: @Dachosened1

Dianah lost 113 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Dianah lost 113 pounds by making simple, straightforward changes to her diet and exercising regularly, at home and in the gym.  Here is what she shared with us about her weight loss journey…

dianah before and after

I found my motivation to lose weight during a visit to the gym with my cousin. I got on a scale there and saw how much I weighed. I really was embarrassed and I wanted to change that number. I started out on my journey by cutting out junk food, soda pop, chips, etc. I also stopped eating meat eventually. My meals started to include more veggies and whole grains. For my workouts, I rotate between using the Insanity program at home and going to the gym. Cardio and weight training are my go to exercises. I workout four times a week because of work.

I started my weight loss journey on June 2, 2014. My starting weight was 386 pounds and my current weight is 273.6 pounds. I’m 6’0″ tall. Honestly, the scale helped to motivate me. Even when I’d stop looking at it for a week or two, I’ll always lose 2-3 pounds! My advice for people who want to lose weight is, don’t give up on yourself. Your life matters even if you don’t think so!

Instagram: @Prissy.kitty

dianah weight loss

Petrece lost 52 pounds

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Petrece lost 52 pounds.  She worked to turn her life around and escape depression and feeling overwhelmed. Wanting to be healthier and more comfortable in her skin, she took action with clean eating and exercise.  Here is what she shared with us about her journey…

petrece weight loss

In February 2014, I was suffering from extreme depression due to life, my weight and just feeling overwhelmed. One day, I had a conversation with a friend of mine and I asked what do you see when you look at me. They said someone who is “settling”. That response forever changed me.

The very next day I changed my entire life around. I was motivated to drop my weight and regain control of my life. At 5’2″ tall I weighed 200 pounds, so you can only imagine how uncomfortable in my skin I felt.

The very first thing I did was get rid of all the junk and processed food I had in my house. I also stopped drinking liquor and I gave up the one thing I love most: SODA. From that day forward, I started eating clean and working out five times a week. I did a lot of yoga and a whole lot of cardio (running stairs, jump roping, etc.) I also fell in love with bike riding.

By August 2014, I started seeing myself transform not only physically but mentally as well. I lost a total of 52 pounds and got my confidence back. I reached one year on my journey in Feb of 2015 and haven’t stopped yet. I found myself again. I’m no longer scared to look in the mirror and that is a priceless feeling, even more rewarding than my weight loss. My advice to others would be to stay focused, trust the process and results will come. Just believe in yourself and don’t give up.

Instagram: @petrece_chantel

Michelle lost 72 pounds

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Weight Loss Transformation of the Day: Michelle lost 72 pounds.  This amazing lady changed her mindset, changed her actions and worked hard to release the weight.  Her message is that you don’t need any supplements, special programs or quick fixes to lose weight. Here is what she shared with us about her weight loss journey…

michelle before and after

I wanted to share my weightless story and my continuing journey with this group. There is 8 months between both photos. The first was taken in Aug 2014 and the 2nd one taken just April 2015. Look at the INCREDIBLE difference 8 months made in my appearance….and you are only able to see the outside. I feel so great, so energized, so motivated and completely worry-free. I feel like I emerged back to ME! When I dropped the weight, I dropped a lot of other stuff too that was making me tired too.

I do not take diet pills or diet aids of ANY KIND. I did not have surgery of any kind. All of this was accomplished without any metabolism “boosters”. Even though I am 47 years old and this type of transformation at my age and in the time frame I accomplished it is considered near impossible without boosters [supplements]! Ha. Weightloss is pure science. Eat less. Eat more whole foods as opposed to processed foods and exercise at least 4 days out of the week for an hour.

So…yes, I CHANGED MY MIND and my body followed. I changed my mind…

  • about food and exercise
  • about overeating
  • about sugar binge-ing
  • about being lazy
  • about processed foods
  • about fast food
  • about SUGAR
  • about a sedentary lifestyle
  • and about inactivity.

Yes. I changed my mind and in turn, I changed my body. Pound by pound. Now, close to 70 pounds have been released into the air, never to return. My starting weight was around 250 pounds (I am 5ft 9in tall) and I was wearing a size 18/20W. I am now in a size 8/10 and I weigh 178 pounds. I am on a mission and I am so excited to see what the next 7 months is gonna look like on my body! I have made new habits and they suit me. I run 4 days a week….5 to 7 miles per day. I cross train with weights and pilates on the other 3 days!

To anyone who is trying to lose weight, get fit, and who may be considering trying some “quick fix” method to accomplish their goals: There is no quick fix. You will be bombarded by people on Facebook or other social media sites trying to sell a dream just to make a quick buck. They may do this either by pushing excessive exercise programs or bootcamps without ever addressing your major nutrition issues.  They never tell folks that belly fat is made in the kitchen! All the sit-ups and crunches in the world won’t rid you of that belly fat if you don’t change the way you eat! Or they tell you to do the opposite…eat like a bird (or here, take these miracle pills), and you lose weight and stay slim. They will say there is no need to exercise. After all, who wants to mess up their hair or get sweaty or worse, get that heart actually pumping! Who gat time for that?? There are 1440 minutes in a day! You mean you can’t find 20 of them to enjoy some physical activity?

Ignore them ALL. Find a CLEAN and WHOLE EATING PLAN (there are many good plans that teach you how to cook and eat healthy using wholesome ingredients) and an EXERCISE regime that works for ýou and stick to it. My weight loss is not miraculous. I worked hard. I worked really really HARD!!!! My average loss of 10 lbs per month falls 100% in the guidelines of safe, proper weight loss. There is nothing fast about it. I simply STUCK to it. I was determined to get my body back!