Jerome, 36, Logistics Manager, Fair Lawn, New Jersey
How much weight have you lost?
105 pounds and still going.
Tell us what the “old you” used to be like.
The old me was very slow and had no energy. I was a couch potato and watched TV as if it was my second job. I would eat an entire pie of pizza and drown myself in a 2-liter soda.
What prompted your weight loss?
When I looked in the mirror and saw that I wasn’t happy. Knowing that my wife was pregnant with my daughter, Georgia, I set out and did a lot of research on how to eat properly throughout the day and exercise. I realized if I wanted to be in my daughter’s life, I needed to be healthy and be able to keep up with my new bundle of joy. I needed to change my life and finally put an end to this weight holding me back.
How did you lose the weight?
I did a lot of research before I started. I realized that almost everyone that has lost the weight, and kept it off, had a food journal to keep track of what they were eating. I looked at a few websites, but I didn’t have the money until I came across Myfitnesspal.com. It was free and allowed me to track my food calorie intake and daily caloric output. Also, one of my relatives had a Fitbit. So I did the research on that and found it was a really great fit for me as well.
How long did it take?
Started in January of 2014 and still going.
What was the hardest part?
Realizing how important nutrition is. You can workout all you want, but if you’re eating bad food … you’re pretty much null and voiding your workouts.
Most fun part of your weight loss?
Getting back my glory days as a runner. I missed how much fun it really is. I ran back in high school competitively. Now it’s just for therapy and getting outside instead of sitting on the couch watching TV. Well, I can still watch TV but while running on my treadmill instead.
Most rewarding experience?
Knowing that I am able to keep up with my daughter. She’s 11 months and a ball of energy. I know that if I was 328 pounds, I would be begging for a nap after five minutes of playing with her. Instead, I am playing with her till she takes a nap.
Who/what inspires you when you feel like quitting?
My daughter, mostly. I just want to be in her life so I can set a good example for her. I am also on a Facebook group called “Favorite Run Community”. Most of the stories that I read are so inspiring and keep a person motivated.
How has this weight loss changed your life?
I think it’s changed me in so many ways. It has been one lifestyle change after the next. I love this new person I have become. I can really say for the first time in my life that I am happy with where I am at.
Have any advice for others who’d like to lose weight?
Realize that it’s a lifestyle change. Realize that just because what you see on TV works for others, doesn’t mean that it’s going to happen to you that quickly. Some people are able to lose the weight quickly because they don’t have to worry about work, or their children. It’s just them and the trainers. The trainers are guiding them down the path, but once they go back home to their family and reality, they gain most of the weight back. They say that they never have time to go to the gym. They can’t fit it in their schedule. My advice to anyone that’s looking to lose the weight is set aside 30 minutes a day for some “you” time. It can be whatever you like to do. Doesn’t have to involve a gym. Take a walk, go for a run, play basketball, or go swimming. Do whatever you think it is that you’re going to fall in love with.
Your must-have fitness equipment: Treadmill. I prefer the open road, but Mother Nature can be cruel sometimes.
Favorite training song: “Bring the Noise” by Anthrax and Public Enemy
Favorite healthy food: “Runner’s World” – Bowties with Tomato and Arugula
Favorite not-so-healthy food: 100 Grand candy bar
Funniest /weirdest/most awkward experience during your weight loss journey.
My first day of running. I remember everybody passing me up. Now it’s the other way around.
Future goals: I would like to be there for my family, especially for my wife and daughter. I’m still looking to lose about another 30 pounds. I would like to inspire people to get off the couch and get active.
Congratulations Jerome! Your decision to LIVE, yes … not just longer, but better … for your family is truly inspiring. Your little girl is so lucky to have a Daddy who loves her enough to overhaul everything to be with her. Can’t wait to see pics of her out running with you some day!
