Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I’m a massage therapist and owner of Marnie’s Naturals, a body care brand. I have loved exercise since high school. I LOVE learning about health, I’m the girl that reads an entire book on magnesium or oregano~ those things just fascinate me!
I have been married for 23 years, and have two kids (20 & 17). I started tennis 6 years ago, and now I’m crazy about it. I compete in team tennis tournaments, and am getting better each year! I have been a Peloton rider for about 3 years now, and love biking in and outside too. I read my age in books every year. I am a huge goal setter, and I believe that is what made me successful in business and my health.
What did your life look like before Stronger U?
I have always exercised and eaten healthy. Looking back I was undereating on my protein for sure. I have cut alcohol WAY back and I don’t even miss it. I didn’t eat out much prior and still prefer to make my own food since I enjoy cooking.
What does your life look like now?
I feel amazing. I can grab anything out of my closet and it fits. I love order and control, so this way of eating is just what I love. It takes planning to make it easy. I usually copycat my days/meals to keep things simple.
Where did you hear about Stronger U?
From a peloton powerzone page. I was interested in increasing my FTP, I invest a lot of time into exercise and just never knew how much of each macro my body needed. I’m a great student, tell me what to do and I will nail it.
Why do you think Stronger U worked so well for you compared to other programs or diets?
I never thought my body needed as much protein as it does. My job is a physical one, and I am an active person —I’m sure I was getting 75% less protein prior to StrongerU. Checking in with someone and being the type that needs to hit my numbers was helpful. I have stuck with a coach for a full year now. I’m sure I would do well on my own~ but I am getting close to maintenance and I know I will need the help with that transition too.
What was something you regularly ate while on Stronger U that people wouldn’t expect you to eat on a diet?
Every single night I plan in a Yasso bar or a Clio bar. I also make my own pizza almost weekly: I use greek yogurt in the dough, and cook it in a cast-iron pan — it’s SO GOOD!
Did Stronger U have any impact on your training?
On my Peloton, I have taken the FTP test several times, and even with a loss of over 30 lbs, my score has gone up! I am so much quicker on the tennis court, I will chase down any ball and get it back!
How much weight did you lose with Stronger U?
32 lbs
How many inches did you lose off your waist?
8.5
Did you have any favorite non-scale victories to share?
It had been 8 months or so since I had my summer Birkenstock’s on, I went to slide into them and thought “why are these so loose!” I never would have guessed my feet to shrink. I had to tighten the buckles 😉
Has Stronger U improved your overall quality of life?
I am happy in my body. I feel nourished with my food choices. Most importantly I learned the balance of eating. I have a slogan for my business: Take care of your body, and it will take care of you. I stand by that 😉
If someone is thinking about joining Stronger U, what advice would you give them before beginning their journey?
Plan ahead. Eat on repeat. Find new ways to make the foods you love. Don’t panic over the ups and downs. As you stick it out that rollercoaster is going to be on the downhill~enjoy the ride!
Would you like to give a shoutout to your coach, SU staff member, or community member?
The community helped me so much with ideas for food, and motivation in peoples stories. Aaron has been my coach for the last year and has been a great support system.
Is there anything else you would like to add about your journey?
I still feel like a student because I don’t know when I’m done with my cut, and when maintenance starts….but I do know I will keep at it, I am so happy I found StrongerU.
