Meet Tonyne – Weight Loss Superstar!

In continuing with my series profiling people who have lost weight, I would like to introduce Tonyne (pronounced Toe-neen). Although she says she isn’t at her final destination, she has made HUGE progress and looks amazing! Here are the questions I asked her…

1. What was your AHA moment when you knew you had to change?

I live on the 2nd floor of a condo building, 1 flight of stairs to climb anytime I need to come or go. I was getting winded! I would take the dog out, walk up the stairs and by the time I got to the top I was out of breath. I was shocked. It was around the same time I also realized I hated wearing jeans because they were uncomfortable. I lived (at home at least) in sweatpants. My life was full of unhealthy habits and I knew I had to do something.

2. What was your first step to getting your weight/body in check?

My first step was to find a support system. Some ladies in my office also wanted to lose some weight so we supported each other in the beginning, it was such a big motivator, knowing I had 3 other people to hold me accountable.

3. Did you ever feel like giving up? How did you keep motivated?

I feel like giving up every couple of days. I’m not going to lie. It always passes though. I will eat terribly, be lazy for a few days and then I will feel awful. My face breaks out, my pants get a little tight…that is my motivation to keep things going. I also get so much support from the amazing blogging community. I don’t want to let myself or them down!

4. What kind of diet did you follow, did you just do your own thing, (like count calories or watch portions) or follow a weight loss plan such as Weight Watchers, South Beach, etc…

I follow the Weight Watchers plan. It had always worked for me in the past, when I actually stuck with it. I had copies of books when I first started, I didn’t join officially. I actually just joined Weight Watchers online in January. I feel it’s the best plan for me because it teaches you portion control and balance. You can eat anything you want with Weight Watchers, as long as you make a points plan to account for it! This works out very well with my love for good beer and pizza!

5. How long did it take you to lose the weight you’ve lost so far?

My highest weight was 256lbs in 2002’ish…I lost down to 175 and then gained back to 209. I’ve been living the healthy life since January of 2009 (at 209lbs) and I currently weight 161lbs. So, I’ve lost almost 50lbs in 16 months. Slow and steady wins the race! More importantly, my clothing size has changed from a size 22 in 2002 to a size 10 now. Pounds aren’t always the best measurement of success!

6. What is a typical food day for you now? What do you like to eat?

I usually start my day with a Green Monster Smoothie or some Greek Yogurt and granola, followed with a leftover from the night before lunch, a snack of fruit and maybe a small piece of chocolate and followed up by a dinner usually full of vegetables. I love roasted vegetables and could eat them every single day. I also love to make healthy pita pizzas and they are my go to meal. I eat a lot of the same food that I ate before, I just modify it now to be healthier. Have you tried Hungry Girls outside in Turkey burger? AMAZING. I still don’t understand how it’s not a sinful treat, but I’m so glad it’s not!

7. Did you exercise right away, or did you wait until you lost weight first?

I wouldn’t say I exercised right away, but I did move more. I walked on the treadmill and did the elliptical and usually for only about 20 minutes. After an episode of The Biggest Loser where Daniel ran for 5 minutes straight on the treadmill, I began to push myself. “Surely if he can do it, I can do it”! I thought I was going to die! Once I finished I had a sense of accomplishment that I had never had before, so that made me keep pushing myself each day a little more. Before I knew it I was training for my first 5k, then my 2nd and now I’m training for a 10k on April 17th! I look at exercise now as my “Me time”. It’s just me, my thoughts, my music and I enjoy it.

8. What tips can you give my readers that you learned on your journey back to health?

Find a plan that works for you and stick with it! This isn’t a diet. It’s a lifestyle change. I know that’s been said 1,000 times before, but it’s so true. Find activities that you enjoy and do them more! Encourage your friends and family to support you. Tell everyone what you are doing for yourself, draw from their words of support and encouragement. This isn’t easy, there is no quick fix, no pill…it’s hard work and sweat, but I promise you, if you do it, you won’t regret it! You will feel better, be more confident and feel on top of the world. Who doesn’t want that?

Thanks so much Tonyne! Super Inspirational!

What part of Tonyne’s story did you find the most valuable??

Click here to go to Tonye’s blog!!!