Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I’m 31 years old and have been an athlete my entire life. I’ve played softball from age 5 through college. I always knew what my body was capable of but graduating and entering the “real” world of a 9-5 desk job and less activity left me struggling. I joined a gym and was an avid spinner and loved lifting weights and do Bootcamp and body pump classes. Despite being very active I still struggled with my weight. I tried low carb, keto, what *thought* was tracking food to no avail. After Stronger U everything changed.
What did your life look like before Stronger U?
I routinely did spin, Bootcamp and body pump classes. I love sports and being active. When Covid happened, I canceled my gym membership and bought a Peloton Bike+ and I’ve never been so dedicated to fitness as I am now. A month after I got my bike I signed up for Stronger U because I really wanted to commit to a life change, not another diet. I knew if I kept eating how I was, let alone in a pandemic, I wouldn’t reach my goals without true knowledge of food and understanding my body, even with my bike. I thought I ate pretty healthy but until I learned how to actually track food correctly, I was definitely overeating and struggled with portion sizes. Now I know I can eat without restrictions as long as I’m consistent with my healthy habits.
What does your life look like now?
Now I wake up every morning excited to start the day. I walk my dog for a mile, stack my classes on Peloton (usually 30-45 minutes of weight lifting daily and cycling 3x/week), work, and end my day with a second one-mile+ walk with the pup. I’m no longer dreading the day, I can lift heavier, cycle, and even run (I never enjoyed running) faster! I can eyeball my portions and make better decisions when it comes to food choices, however, I still indulge at special events or on the weekends, knowing I’m still going to keep showing up for myself every day to conquer my goals!
Where did you hear about Stronger U?
Peloton Facebook group
Why do you think Stronger U worked so well for you compared to other programs or diets?
Stronger U taught me you can eat without restriction but you need to do so within your means. You don’t need to cut out certain foods to reach your goals and you don’t need to “earn” your food. Just keep showing up and do the things to make you feel like your best self.
What was something you regularly ate while on Stronger U that people wouldn’t expect you to eat on a diet?
Ice cream and chocolate!
Did Stronger U have any impact on your training?
I exercise daily, and now that I properly fuel my body thanks to Stronger U, I thoroughly enjoy my workouts more and they aren’t as tough as they used to be. I still challenge myself but I actually enjoy cross-training (weight lifting/cycling/HIIT/Power Zone training/running). I can lift heavier than I ever have and hit new PRs all the time.
How much weight did you lose with Stronger U?
55 pounds and counting!
How many inches did you lose off your waist?
13 inches
Did you have any favorite non-scale victories to share?
Some favorite non-scale victories include no more chub rub while out walking/running! I can do several burpees no problem. My clothes fit the best they ever have and I’m just overall happier and confident.
Has Stronger U improved your overall quality of life?
My quality of life has dramatically improved because of Stronger U. I’m excited to see what the day brings, I’m energetic and not as tired or worn out, and I’m comfortable in my skin. I’m damn proud.
If someone is thinking about joining Stronger U, what advice would you give them before beginning their journey?
Don’t get frustrated when you’re first starting out and don’t give up on yourself. Make small consistent changes in your diet and don’t think “all or nothing” mentality. Small changes lead to big results over time, as long as you are consistent!
Would you like to give a shoutout to your coach, SU staff member, or community member?
Michelle is an amazing coach and accountability partner. She tells me the tough truths when I need to hear them but also cheers me on constantly when I doubt myself.
