Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I’m a wife, mom, and a Certified Public Accountant.
What did your life look like before Stronger U?
I was miserable and stuck in an ugly cycle of getting depressed because I wasn’t losing weight and eating more to compensate. I tried many different diets and ways to lose weight most of which would work for a very short while and then I’d get tired and gain more than I’d lost. I used food as an outlet to deal with stress and as a temporary solution to feel better. I didn’t have enough energy to keep up or play with my young kids. I had no control around sweets and felt like I had to eat them.
What does your life look like now?
Within my first week of starting SU I felt better and had a lot more energy. I didn’t realize how bad I felt due to overeating and lack of nutritious food until I started to change my eating habits. I’ve been able to maintain my weight loss and keep it off even in the periods when I’ve been without a coach. I now have much more control over what I eat and don’t feel out of control around food any longer. I eat mostly nutritious food with treats also thrown in. I’m able to comfortably navigate most situations in which food used to cause me anxiety.
Where did you hear about Stronger U?
Mary Hudson shared SU with me and her success.
Why do you think Stronger U worked so well for you compared to other programs or diets?
The accountability and structure helped to me to create guardrails and learn how to navigate everyday circumstances. I also learned how to cook and put together meals that work to keep me satisfied and help me meet my goals. The knowledge I’ve gained is priceless. The structure of SU is opposite of most weightless programs or diets it’s not to eat as little as possible to lose weight as fast as possible. It’s to have you eat as much as possible while still losing weight (if weight loss is your goal). This is a much more sustainable approach and helps you learn along the way.
What was something you regularly ate while on Stronger U that people wouldn’t expect you to eat on a diet?
I’ve regularly eaten sweets and lots of potatoes and bread! I also eat tacos about once a week!
How much weight did you lose with Stronger U?
I’ve lost around 60lbs.
How many inches did you lose off your waist?
I’ve lost around 10 inches.
Did you have any favorite non-scale victories to share?
I now recognize myself in pictures again! I’m not embarrassed to see pictures of myself anymore! I no longer need naps every weekend and in fact can rarely even take a nap if I try! Also, shopping is much more fun and my clothes now fit!
Has Stronger U improved your overall quality of life?
Yes, I have so much more energy and ability to do hard physical things! I can keep up with my kids now and play play with them all day!
If someone is thinking about joining Stronger U, what advice would you give them before beginning their journey?
I would say don’t let the cost keep you from trying it! Your health and life is worth so much more than the cost! I would also let them know that it is a major learning commitment and it’s not about the pounds lost but the knowledge you gain!
Would you like to give a shoutout to your coach, SU staff member, or community member?
I’ve had 3 great coaches Jodi, Jeni and Julie! They’ve all been great and taught me new things! Thanks to Mary for continually encouraging me to join and on my journey!
Anything else?
It’s been a very eye opening experience and I’ve learned so much on this journey! I’m so glad to have my energy and life back!!
