Kirstin Schneider, 28, Special Education Teacher, Lancaster, PA
How much weight have you lost?
35lbs so far.
What was the “old you” like?
My fiancé is a chef and one thing we like to do together is go out and try new restaurants. When at those restaurants, I was not making the healthiest choices. I also did not enjoy working out and really did not know how to workout properly. I may have entered into a gym once or twice a year. When at a gym, I felt self-conscious and was ready to leave, before I even started. Once I started noticing the weight pile on, I tried every different fad diet and weight loss program there was out there, never enjoying or sticking to any of them.
What prompted your weight loss?
I have always been on a weight loss rollercoaster. My recent engagement and pending wedding made me take my health and weight loss more seriously. Knowing there would be many photos taken, and wanting to be comfortable in my wedding gown in front of family and friends prompted my weight loss.
How did you lose the weight?
Ultimately eating the right foods, counting calories, and working out at least three days a week, helped me to lose the weight. I also have a very supportive trainer, who tends to believe more in me than I do myself. I also weigh myself daily. This helps to keep me on track.
How long did it take?
I am not yet at my weight loss goal. However, I started to take this process seriously this past summer after almost reaching 200lbs. I saw the most of my weight come off from July to November (5 months).
What was the hardest part?
The hardest part is sticking with my workouts, even after a long, stressful day at work. I have also had to change the way I am eating, which has been difficult especially through the holidays.
Most fun part of your weight loss?
I have started to enjoy trying clothes on again, especially clothes I kept, but did not fit into. The positive feedback from my peers, especially those at the gym. I can also actually say that for the first time, I do enjoy working out. It is also exciting to complete different workouts that I never expected to be able to do.
Most rewarding experience?
This past winter break, I had the opportunity to workout with my younger sister, a D1 athlete. She is the one who got me hooked up with the correct trainer at the right gym, someone she was motivated by. When I worked out with her over the summer I had to consistently take breaks during the workout and could not run a mile without wanting to stop. However, when working out with her a few weeks ago, I was able to keep up. We were able to workout frequently together over the break and it was nice to share a common bond again.
Who/what inspires you when you feel like quitting?
Right now, the idea of standing in front of my future husband, family and friends at the altar is what is keeping me motivated. I am also fearful of what may happen if I skip a day. I have made a lot of progress and do not want to go back to where I was, 35 lbs. ago.
How has this weight loss changed you life?
The most important thing to me is that I feel confident again. I am challenging myself to take on more physical activities, I did not believe I could do. It has also become an outlet and a means of managing my stress.
Have any advice for others who’d like to lose weight?
I believe that it is possible for all to lose weight, but it is something you really have to want for yourself. Find that workout and weight loss plan that works best for you and understand that it takes time to lose weight and to build strength and endurance.
Your must-have fitness equipment.
Dumbbells
Favorite training song: I don’t have one song, but have enjoyed using fitness music apps that mix songs. I tend to have music ADD and need my music to consistently be changing about every 45 to 60 seconds.
Favorite healthy food: Pho (Vietnamese chicken soup with rice noodles)
Favorite not-so healthy food: Doritos
Funniest /weirdest/most awkward experience during your weight loss journey: When I first started working out, I went to a gym in my town and had run into someone I had gone on a few dates with. I was using the TRX bands to do hip thrusts and he lingered in the doorway and watched. I just kept saying to myself, “don’t make eye contact”. Needless to say, I no longer go to that gym.
Future goals: Participate in a 5k, continue my weight loss journey
Ultimately eating the right foods, counting calories, and working out at least three days a week, helped me to lose the weight. I also have a very supportive trainer, who tends to believe more in me than I do myself. I also weigh myself daily. This helps to keep me on track.