Tell us a little bit about yourself!:
I am 28 years old and from Michigan. I’m currently in my fifth year of teaching and just became a homeowner! I love spending time with family and friends and being outdoors.
What did your life look like before Stronger U?:
Before joining Stronger U in the fall of 2022, I would have considered myself a pretty healthy and active person, but I felt horrible. After gaining over 25 pounds in less than two years, I was at a loss. I finally got diagnosed with hypothyroidism which gave me some answers, but I was still stuck. I felt like I was eating well, I was working out 4-5 times a week, making sure I got my steps, and nothing was working. I was still gaining. That’s when I discovered Stronger U.
What does your life look like now?:
While my activity level hasn’t really changed, my relationship with both food and exercise has changed a lot. I am much more mindful about my eating as well as my movement! Before, I would work out through sicknesses, never take a rest, and honestly just make myself feel worse. Now, I rest when I need to, stay focused on my macros but I know that one off day isn’t the end of the world, and I just feel SO much better. Working with a coach has made me feel much more flexible and confident in making the choices that are right for me.
Why do you think Stronger U worked so well for you compared to other programs or diets?:
Having the accountability of a coach and someone available to me when I needed it was a game-changer for me. I can message Amelia when things aren’t working, when I’m feeling stressed, when I’ve got a vacation planned and need to change things, etc., and she’s a huge help. The best part is that she doesn’t always tell me what I want to hear, but she tells me what I need to hear. She keeps me going even when I’m feeling stuck!
What was something you regularly ate while on Stronger U that people wouldn’t expect you to eat on a diet?:
I can literally eat anything while on Stronger U, which is one of my favorite parts! I can partake in teacher appreciation meals that our PTO puts on without feeling left out, I can enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, have a brownie for dessert, indulge in some favorite chips, go out with my friends, the works!
How much weight did you lose with Stronger U?:
23
How many inches did you lose off your waist?:
5
Did you have any favorite non-scale victories to share?:
“Have you lost, like, a lot of weight?” I know that comment isn’t great for everyone, but hearing that has made me feel SO good. I’ve heard it from coworkers, family, and friends, and it’s been huge for me. I think another big non-scale victory for me has just been proving to people that “dieting” doesn’t have to be this crazy rigid thing where you miss out on your favorite foods and beverages.
If someone is thinking about joining Stronger U, what advice would you give them before beginning their journey?:
Be willing and open to the changes! It can get hard at times, but lean on your coach as much as you need and know that they’re there to help you along the journey. It’s also SO important to not only focus on the scale! Changes come in all sorts of ways- take your measurements, take your pictures, and journal your feelings. Take stock of it all, and don’t give up even if the scale won’t budge.
Is there anything else you would like to add about your journey?:
After being stuck for so long, I cannot put into words how grateful I am to Stronger U for getting me out of my rut. I feel INCREDIBLE and like a new person, truly.
