No, I am not a health guru, physical trainer, or a gym junkie. I actually hate running, can barely do 10 pushups, and cannot jump rope to save a life. Despite all these qualities I was still able to lose over 30 lbs.

How I lost over 30 lbs, is simple. I had pure motivation. I believe one of the greatest motivators in the world is your own determination and will to do something. I was finally tired of how I looked in every mirror I looked in or passed. My senior year of high school I decided I was going to make a change for the better. I was determined to make this change before I went off to college. I wanted a fresh start and to be viewed in a different way. What better way to accomplish that then to lose weight? I saw it as creating a new outlook on myself so I could be more confident. It would be an image that I could be proud of and know that I accomplished. I knew if I could complete this goal then I would be confident I could conquered anything I put my mind too! The goal would be one of the hardest things I would ever do because I had been battling being over-weight since I was six-years old.

First, I didn't want to set goals that would be discouraging or seemed unobtainable. So, I set small goals for myself at first, losing 5lbs, 10lbs, and so on. The first 20 lbs seemed easy compared to the rest of the weight. When I reached about 20lbs, I came to a crossing because I was starting to notice my results and it made me want to settle for that current weight. I had to fight for the last 10lbs or so because I kept wanting to stop saying things like “this is good enough”. But, I had a set goal for myself and wanted to achieve it. I would prove to myself that I was strong and had will power.

Now that I have explained a little of my personal story and mental struggles, I will explain how I physically lost the weight.

I did not go out and buy some expensive weight lost machine or videos that claim to make you lose weight "guarantee". Although Insanity crossed my mind, I did not think that it would be beneficial to me and how I like to work out. I personally prefer longer workouts with resting moments as opposed too short workouts with gasping for air but that's just me. I took 5lb weights that we already had at home and choose a few Pinterest (yes, I said Pinterest) workouts that were simple enough for an inexperienced gym goer like myself. The workouts I choose actually could be done at home. Most pertained to crunches, jumping jacks, and arm workouts. I did the routines twice a day, once when I woke up, and once before I went to bed. Also, I am a golfer so I would play golf (hit balls, play 9 holes, ect.). Obviously, the golfing part doesn’t work for everyone so I would suggest walking a couple miles a day or joining an intramural sports team that you enjoy. It’s all about burning calories and getting those butts off of the couch. For those days that I could not golf, I would make sure to eat the appropriate amount of calories for my current weight. I suggest using Fitness Pal app because it calculates that for you.

And, that's my "not so secret" way to losing weight. I hope it was helpful!

Some things to remember, at first, every day will feel like a struggle but it will be worth it in the end. But, it takes 4 weeks for YOU to see your body changing. It takes 8 weeks for YOUR friends and family to notice. And, it takes 12 weeks for the rest of the world to notice so keep going!

Sincerely,

Your Uncoordinated Friend