If Jenn Can Do It, Then So Can You!

One of the most inspirational things about the fitness magazines I read are the reader stories of success. I always think “Hey! If she can do it, then so can I”. Then, I put down whatever sweet I’m eating at the moment and grab a glass of water. Because I find these articles so inspiring, I thought that I would share the success stories of my readers.

This week, I’m featuring the success of Jenn who blogs at: YPersonal Fit Coach. Jenn is very active in the #mamavation Twitter group (her twitter name is: @myfitcoach). Jenn lost most of her weight last year, but after a head injury, put back on about 15 pounds. She then lost all but 2 of those lbs this year. She grew up in New York and was a reasonably active kid. Like most of us, her weight gain didn’t begin until college. After having my children, she really “piled on the pounds” (her words – not mine) and had difficulty getting motivated to do any exercise at all.

Here’s her story:

Q – What was your turning point? Why did you embark on your weight loss journey?
My turning point was when I felt like I had to go to bed BEFORE my children (who were then ages 1 and 4). What kind of mom could I be if I did not have the energy to keep up with them.

I saw an infomercial for P90X and though “there is no way I will ever do that” but it did inspire me to try to get moving. Initially, I just did about 15 minutes on my exercise bike each day. Slowly, I worked up to 45 minutes, added some strength training and completed the Turbo Jam series, losing about 30 pounds. After a tough year with the loss of my mom, and gaining some weight back, I tackled P90X and got in the best shape of my life.

Q – What is your #1 motivation that keeps you working to lose/maintain your weight?
My top motivation is definitely my family. I want to be happy and healthy for them. Exercise and proper nutrition keeps me in the best mood and the best shape to keep up with them for kickball, soccer, swimming, or whatever they want to play.

Blogging about health and fitness, and becoming a fitness coach also helps keep me motivated to stay in top shape as I try my best to inspire others.

Q – What have you done to lose the weight? What life-style changes have you made?
The Beachbody line of programs have helped me tremendously. I love that everything is mapped out for you in terms of workouts to nutrition for a period of 6 weeks up to 3 months. I never need to guess what’s coming next. Although, after my head injury last year, I had a really tough time getting back on track, especially with my eating. I joined a free website called ichange.com. Lead by registered nutritionists, it’s been a great way for me to track calories, workouts, and just have a great community for support.

Q – How has losing weight changed you?
I completely feel better about myself both emotionally and physically. I suffered from post partum depression and anxiety and getting fit and healthy made a world of difference. I love being active with my family and trying new things to challenge myself. I’m hoping to do a sprint triathlon next spring.

Jenn’s “Stick-With-It” secrets are:

1. Log your food and water intake daily
2. Log your workouts and schedule them for the entire week
3. Maintain as close to a 30/40/30 blend on good fats/carbs/proteins

Great job Jenn and good luck in the Sprint Triathalon! You’re an inspiration to me, and you know what? If you can do it then so can I! Thanks you for sharing your story with us!

Do you want to inspire other moms? If so I want to feature you in a post on Fitness Cheerleader! Please complete my questionnaire so I can feature you!