Valerie: The defining moment for me was seeing a picture of myself at my 30th birthday party in Miami (pink dress.) I was in shock and pretty upset with myself. How did I get to 280lbs?!? Seeing that picture and hitting that huge milestone age of 30 changed my life forever.
Valerie: Research! After my 30th birthday I sat down for hours and just did research. I learned how changing what I ate, my portions and starting to walk for an hour a day could greatly jump start my weight loss. So I researched caloric deficit and portion control and got started. I walked for an hour a day and stayed away from fried food, processed food and fast food. I also dramatically changed my portion sizes. I started eating 5-6 small meals a day instead of 3 large meals.
Valerie: The food! I love food. Getting to the gym was easy. It was being strict for the rest of the day that was a struggle for me. What worked best for me was planning out my meals for the day, in the morning. I was strict with myself. If it wasn't written down, I didn't eat it! I logged all my meals on My Fitness Pal.
MUST READ: How I Lost Weight: "If I Couldn't Pronounce It, I Didn't Eat It"
Valerie: My husband loved that I was getting healthy and happy. I was miserable when I was obese and quite sad all the time. He even started working out with me. My friends enjoy watching my journey and a few of them have even started their own journeys.
Valerie: Five Guys! I always go there for my cheat meals! I have always been in love with a good burger and fries.
3. Stay focused and be patient. It takes time. You didn't gain it over night and you won't lose it over night.
Valerie: I share my journey on IG- valerietynes and my blog occasionally at www.fabchickgetsfit.com. I plan to get back into writing on my blog starting June 1st when I start prepping for my first bodybuilding competition.
