Amanda Wagner, 31, Kimberly, WI, Hair Stylist
How much weight have you lost? Lost about 50 pounds (highest 196; lowest 148)
Tell us what the “old you” used to be like. The old me used to eat fast food a lot and tons of bad carbohydrates. I had no knowledge on severing sizes; more like never paid it any attention. I’d work out just to end up at a drive-thru with the thought, “I worked out today so it’s okay.” I know I’m not the only one who has done this.
What prompted your weight loss? A few things. The first thing was I saw a picture of myself at my kid’s birthday party and was disgusted by how I looked. I thought, “how did I let myself turn into that?” That was the last picture that was taken of me for a long time. Then, I worked with a few ladies that started Weight Watchers (I tried the old way of WW and thought it was too hard to track points). As I noticed these ladies losing weight, and looking fabulous might I add, I decided I would give it a try. I lost 12 pounds before I went to weigh in (my starting weight was 196), so I was excited about how much I lost by only following WW at home. Then … I sat in a chair and that thing folded over. I was down on the ground embarrassed, but nonetheless, I knew I was exactly where I needed to be.
How long did it take? It took me about six to seven months to become a lifetime member. I knew how to workout, but never knew how to eat.
What was the hardest part? By far one of the hardest parts of weight loss is the maintenance! This is something that I struggle with, even today. I currently have six pounds to lose to get back to my lowest.
Most fun part of your weight loss? Most fun is wearing BRIGHT-colored workout gear and getting disgustingly sweaty; also trying new fruits and veggies.
Most rewarding experience? Inspiring others! Life gets busy, but we have to make time for our health.
Who/what inspires you when you feel like quitting? What keeps me going when I want to be lazy is the FitBit challenges. I have found myself to be competitive and am always up for some competition.
How has this weight loss changed your life? Weight loss has changed me tremendously. I went from hiding behind food to having enough self-esteem to use my voice. I have gained so many new relationships because I am not ashamed of what I look like. I am not at my goal weight, but I will continue to work for that. Plus, shopping is fun; I don’t have to put on so many layers to hide all that jiggle.
Your must-have fitness equipment: My must-have equipment are Saucony shoes and a cool-looking water bottle.
Favorite training song: My favorite song is by Deitrick Haddon- “You are my strength.”
Favorite healthy food: Any roasted veggies and carrots with hummus. I LOVE hummus.
Favorite not-so-healthy food: Any and all candy.
Funniest/weirdest/most awkward experience during your weight loss journey: Funniest thing that used to happen to me is when I started WW and decided I would start running. Well, my tummy would keep hitting the emergency stop button and the treadmill kept stopping, but I didn’t let that stop me. I enjoy running. The longest I’ve gone at one time is 11 miles. I believe I’m ready to do a half marathon.
Future goals: Goals for my future are to become a fitness trainer and to continue to encourage others.
Wow Amanda! We loved hearing your honest answers about your struggles and triumphs. You’ll be an amazing fitness instructor and we welcome you to the industry. You’re already a true inspiration. Fitz and the entire team at Fitzness.com
