Body Transformation: Anna Cut 140 Pounds From Her Life

Vital Stats

Name: Anna Mefferd

Why I Got Started

I was just so tired of being very overweight. I had always secretly thought of myself as athletic but I was not. There were so many activities and adventures I wanted to do but I could not because of my weight.

I realized not only was I weighing my body down with excess weight but also my spirit and zest for life. December 2009 I purchased an elliptical and dropped about 30 pounds. I had previously lost 20 or so pounds before but gained it back. This time I really wanted to do it!

I found Jen Heath, an online personal trainer who I contacted. I liked the idea of having some help and support but being and being able to afford it too. I also really liked her attitude. After I sent her my pics and stats her response was, "This is gonna be fun!" I loved that kick butt attitude and felt that this time I could really do it!

How I Did It

My workout program started slowly, building up strength and fitting in cardio when and where I could. I started using workouts as a way to de-stress after work. Previously I would just make way too much pasta and veg out by the TV. As I got stronger, I started to see results and that kept me going. I can't even begin to tell you how ecstatic I was when I was able to do my first chin-up!

I also started biking with a friend - eventually building up to longer and more intense rides. With my new found fitness I was also able to start doing some of those activities I had always dreamed of doing like snowboarding and doing a surf camp.

Changing my diet was definitely a wake-up call for me. At first I had a hard time getting in my protein requirements without going over in carbohydrates. I had previously been eating way too many of those. Jen was great in helping me figure out how to change my diet. Eating higher protein and lower carbohydrate made a huge difference with my weight loss and energy. Staying on track with my diet the weight came off fast and I felt very clear, alert and strong.

When I did have cheat meals I felt much more lethargic and puffy. It is also amazing to observe how addictive refined carbohydrates can be. I know that staying on track with a good diet will always be work for me but it's totally doable. I still have another 20 or so pounds to go but I know I can accomplish my goals.

Supplements

Diet

Training

My routines are changing every few months but here is what I am currently doing:

Suggestions for Others

Find what exercise and activity works for you. For me going to the gym was a hassle so doing workouts at home was a great fit.

Find a buddy or several for working out and being active. Having friends to ride or snowboard with was great!

Sign up for a doable event in the future. Spring 2010 I signed up for a 40 mile fall bike ride. At the time the most I had ridden was under 15 miles so it was a great incentive to get my butt out the door and on the bike!

Slip-ups are okay. I definitely had times where my diet was not so great for a week or so, BUT, I kept working out and would get back into the groove. I found that the diet breaks had me coming back stronger for the next 10-or-20 pounds.

Having support such as a personal trainer like Jen as my online coach has been amazing. It has made all the difference for me. Times where I might have given up she has been there rooting me on and pushing me to be a better, fitter person. Accountability is really important.

Have a quote or mantra that helps push you on. I always think, "A body in motion stays in motion" which it totally true. When I am active I keep on being active. If I don't work out for a few days it's always harder to get in gear again, but when you do it feels so good!

Trainer Credit:
Jen Heath, http://www.jenheath.com/

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