HOUSTON
I was morbidly obese two years ago. Difficult words to write, but at 251 pounds,
it was the truth. My best friend wanted me to do lap band surgery with her, but I really wanted to
try healthy eating and exercise one more time. I began my search to find MY
best way of losing weight and I actually found part of the answer in this
magazine. I called and spoke with one of the staff at Health & Fitness Sports Magazine, who suggested I contact Karen Mones, who operates Adventure Bootcamp.
I was very hesitant because of my weight, but I emailed Karen and told her of my
situation. She said she could change up some exercises that might be too
difficult, but I would not be left behind. Karen was right. I would walk while
others jogged. I would touch my knees while others touched their toes. Everyone
encouraged me and made me feel part of the group. In fact, I have made some
wonderful lasting friendships at bootcamp. I had originally agreed to sign up
for one month then move on to a gym, but two years later, I have not left
bootcamp. Oh, and I can touch my toes now!
Next, I had to work on my food issues. Nothing will open your eyes up more than
a true food journal. Facing the facts of what I actually was consuming all day
was an important step for me. Teaching myself what correct portions are and
eating every three hours was a vital part of my weight loss. Karen also taught
me about “intentional” eating, rather than “mindless” eating, and the value of using smaller plates and bowls and always being aware
of everything you eat.
I applied a lot of these practices to my daily eating routine and they really
helped. Of particular benefit was the book “Mindless Eating” by Brian Wansink. Like everyone, I have cravings, too. I love ice cream, so I try to fit that into
my weekly caloric intake. Maybe I eat too much one day, but I get right back on
track the next. I was determined not to give up. Every time a size of clothes
got too big, I immediately donated them and got them out of my closet. I knew I
was not going back to that size. This was an important step for me.
I was a size 24, but now I am a size eight. My plan is to be a size six with a
lot of muscles, but I am certainly happy with my transformation so far. I now
weigh about 149 pounds. My goal is 140. I have lost 102 pounds! My (total)
cholesterol was 230 and is now 130 without any medication. I sleep better and
my energy level has tripled. But the best part is I have found myself again,
spiritually, mentally and physically.
I am married with a five-year-old daughter, and am the general manager of a
wholesale nursery company. I also help my husband in his computer business and
do real estate on the side, so I know a lot about fitting exercise and healthy
eating into a schedule.
We all have the choice every day to make right or wrong decisions. It became
very important to me to make mostly right decisions every day. Be true to
yourself in everything you do. I am worth it and so are you.
Virginia Spinks
Houston
Age: 41
Transformation
Weight: 251 to 149 pounds
BMI: 51 to 25
Workout
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: Bootcamp session
Wednesday: Participate in S-Factor dance class
Saturday: Yoga session
Weight lifting: Three times per week