Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I’m a content marketing manager at AWS and the proud mom of an 8 year old girl and 9 year old boy. I’ve been an athlete my whole life, and now translate that into a Peloton obsession. My husband, kids, and two elderly rescue pups live in the Chicago suburbs and spend most weekends these days at the baseball or softball diamond cheering on our kids!
What did your life look like before Stronger U?
I’ve always been active and loved working out but have struggled with my weight since I was a child. Remember so many days crying in the dressing room with my mom because nothing fit. I’m now the smallest I’ve ever been in my life (a size 6 – I still can’t believe it). I always gravitated towards healthy foods, but I think I just ate too much. I tried it all: Whole 30, WW, intermittent fasting, keto etc. This is the first “diet” that has EVER worked for me!
What does your life look like now?
It looks mostly the same, which I think is a good thing. But I learned the importance of balancing out your foods, fueling your body and workouts with enough protein, and that one bad meal/day is nothing to feel guilt over. I now enjoy all foods in moderation without feelings of shame or guilt – life changing! I know if things start to veer off in the wrong direction I can get back on the right course with my weighing and tracking.
Why do you think Stronger U worked so well for you compared to other programs or diets?
Everything in moderation and nothing off limits. Remove the emotional connection to food and do not associate shame or guilt with anything. Food is food and nothing more and there is a time and a place for everything.
What was something you regularly ate while on Stronger U that people wouldn’t expect you to eat on a diet?
Cereal! And dessert every night!
If you exercise or train for a sport, did Stronger U have any impact on your training?
First I had to reset my Pelton PRs because I lost 30 lbs and the power I can generate is different. But then I had a lot more energy when I went into maintenance mode. The biggest game-changer for me is that I am working to incorporate a lot more strength training. I’m a cardio junkie and I know that I don’t need to just do cardio to lose weight and reach my goals.
How much weight did you lose with Stronger U?
30 pounds
Did you have any favorite non-scale victories to share?
Still cannot believe I wear a size 6. I’ve been a 10/12 most of my life.
Has Stronger U improved your overall quality of life?
I’m more comfortable in my own skin and finally over the terrible fad diets.
If someone is thinking about joining Stronger U, what advice would you give them before beginning their journey?
Trust the process. And track and weigh everything to really get the hang of things. Though it’s a lot of work, it’s also the most liberating diet out there.
Would you like to give a shoutout to your coach, SU staff member, or community member?
I’d like to give a shoutout to my friend, Deborah, who inspired me to join.
