How I Lost 60lbs: Part I Of My Journey To Healthy, Strong & Confident

Posted on by claudiamariefit

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Aloha beautiful!

Hhhhaaaa…I am taking a deep breath…because I have been thinking for a while now whether I should blog about my fat loss journey or not. Even though it takes some courage for me to share my before pictures, I decided to write about my journey because it is more than just about losing pounds – it is my personal story of change, empowerment, challenges, victories, good -, bad -, weak – and strong days and I always feel inspired and motivated to see people who came out on top.

Most importantly, I hope that YOU will find some motivation and inspiration from my posts and that they may help you in becoming a bit healthier, happier or fitter than you already are. And if you are already a fitness goddess, I hope you can pick up the one or other tip and also let us know about what has worked for you.

I truly believe that EVERY woman has something unique and beautiful about her no matter her size or shape. Often we are influenced by what the ‘ideal body’ should look like and that is truly a shame because there is NO single ideal body. Some prefer being curvy, skinny or muscular and as long as it works for you – I am the last one to judge! We are all very different in shape and size and what may work for me may not work for you and vice versa. There is nothing more beautiful than a confident and happy woman! However, I also know that we are often our own biggest critics (I am totally guilty of that) but the only person I compare myself to or want to be better than – is the person I was yesterday. The reasons I wanted to make a change were predominantly intrinsically driven (which I believe is a big factor when it comes to motivation and ultimately success in the long run).

SIDE NOTE: For the first 22 years of my life, I used to live in Europe. I would say I was never slim nor really heavy. Until my late teens I used to dance, play soccer and be moderately active.

After having moved to the US about 4 years ago I feel like I started getting bigger. I wasn’t used to free soda refills and big portion sizes plus I wasn’t really working out either.

However, I didn’t really realize how big I got until….

WHEN did I start:

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One of the pictures that made me change my lifestyle

…I was visiting New York for the first time – I remember how swollen my feet were after spending the whole day walking around and exploring the city. After coming back to the hotel,  I sat down to go through all the pictures I took that day and that was when it hit me. I was pretty devastated and so unhappy in this situation. Looking through the pictures of me in NYC (this one in particular) made me realize that I have to change something.

HOW did I start:

  • INTRINSIC MOTIVATION – after I was feeling down for a bit and feeling miserable for myself, I had this aha moment in which I got up and said to myself:”I can either continue to feel sorry for myself and feel miserable OR I can get up and make a change right now. Changing my body is something that I – and only I have the power to do. ” Thinking about it this way felt very empowering. It is a great feeling knowing that I can change this situation and don’t have to rely on anybody else to do so.
  • HEALTHIER CHOICES – That evening I made a promise to myself to do everything I can to become healthier and happier with my body. A promise is kind of a big deal, isn’t it? Since I was on my vacation in NYC, I tried to opt for healthier choices such as salads rather than fries, I took the steps rather than the elevator,…
  • RESEARCH – I went online and googled about nutrition and fitness. I like to understand not only which exercise or food may be good for my goal but I also want to know the why and what it does to my body.
  • PERSONAL TRAINER – Once I went back home, I felt that finding somebody who is a professional in this field would be beneficial for me (at the beginning).
  • GROUP WORKOUTS – I also started Pilates classes – one of the most challenging yet satisfying fitness classes I have ever done.

WHY did I start:

  • HEALTH has been and will forever be my primary motivation. Before I started my journey I wasn’t able to run more than 0.3 miles without gasping for air and sweating as if I just ran a marathon. I wasn’t able to do a single push up (yes, not even the easier version). Health is something we often take for granted but it is the biggest gift we have and I wanted to become overall a more healthy person.
  • CONFIDENCE  (in a humble manner)  is a woman’s best asset and I have never really felt confident with my body. I wanted this to change and become an overall more confident woman.
  • PROVING MYSELF that I can do anything I set my mind to and prove myself that I am stronger than I thought I am.
  • FITTER AND STRONGER BODY – I wanted to feel good in my own body! I would consider myself as being a spiritual person and I love feeding my mind empowering and positive thoughts. I wanted to start doing that with my body – feeding it healthy foods that make me feel good and allow my body to perform on a high level.

There are a lot of things I have learned along my journey that helped me tremendously. A lot of us are looking for that quick fix, that instant gratification of losing weight (and trust me I have been there as well) but after all those failed crash diets, diet shakes/pills…I can tell you that there is nothing more satisfying than looking in the mirror and finally liking what you see and knowing that YOU achieved that because of all that hard work, dedication and your will to succeed.

Your reality today is not your future…you have it in your hands. I want to share with you all the different things that have helped me to become healthier, slimmer, more  toned, more confident and strong. A lot of these aspects have been beneficial in several other areas of my life as well.

I know first hand that it may be scary and overwhelming when there is so much information out there and you don’t even know where to start but trust me when I say that you’ve already made the first and probably the most difficult step towards a healthier YOU by understanding that you are not happy with the current situation and by truly wanting to change and committing to do so.

Below you will find different categories that I want to talk with you about because I have found them to be very important and helpful during my journey. I have so much to share about each individual category, so I will talk more in depth about each one in separate future blog posts. You can also leave me questions below in the comment section about what you want me to address or talk more in depth about.

MY PATH TO SUCCESS

COMMITTMENT

  • Realizing that you are not happy with the current situation.
  • Be committed and stick to it.
  • Make your lifestyle change a priority!
  • START NOW because a year from now you will wish you’ve started today.

THIRST FOR KNOWLEDGE

  • You may think that you already know a lot about nutrition and working out – but do you really?
    • For example: You may think that choosing a salad for lunch is a low calorie and healthy option. However, certain pre-made dressings or processed ingredients can be loaded with calories and sugars. You may think that fats are bad for you because that is what we have been told for so long. However, healthy fats are important in order to lose fat and so necessary for your overall health (skin, heart, blood – pressure…
  • Always do your own research (articles online or in fitness/health magazines/books)
  • You can find inspiration from other bloggers
  • Don’t fall for fads or anything that promises you unrealistic results by only drinking shakes or taking pills.

NUTRITION

  • Nutrition plays one of the most important roles:
    • in losing fat, becoming healthier and more toned, providing fuel and recovery, pre/post workouts, it may prevent diseases and make your skin look more radiant,…
  • Especially when you are starting off with your journey (and feel overwhelmed with working out 4-6 times a week) make sure you get your nutrition right:
  • 75% (nutrition) + 25% (fitness) = fat loss + muscle building
  • When you are more intermediate (you’ve  already adopted better eating habits) concentrate on a detailed workout plan.
  • Opt for smaller portions
  • Opt for 6 small meals/snacks rather than 3 big meals (it increases your metabolism).
  • I believe in a balanced diet – Try to eat fresh, whole, homemade and organic foods that nourishes your body and cover all your macro nutrients (proteins, carbohydrates and healthy fats)

HELPFUL APPS FOR TRACKING YOUR NUTRITION

  • When you start off, it may be a good idea to track your nutrition. That helps to stay on track and actually see how many macronutrients, calories, sugars, etc you eat in a day and than make changes accordingly
  • Lose it
  • My Fitness Pal

SMART SNACKING/BE PREPARED

  • Be prepared and have healthy options at hand for when you are on the go. Especially if you are a sweet tooth, like I am.

WORKOUTS 

  • Besides nutrition being active is a major key factor to living a healthy life.
  • I used to hate! (and I very rarely use this word) working out and could not in a million years think that one day I would love it so much.
  • I now love lifting weights, doing cardio and taking Pilates classes – all for different purposes. I find that switching up my workouts keeps my body challenged and I see the best results.
  • Most importantly find a workout that YOU enjoy and will most likely stick to. Are you a group person – than maybe a fitness class is for you? Do you like to be in your own zone and do your own thing? Do you prefer being outdoors? Try out different things!
  • Find a workout partner to keep yourself accountable and motivated
  • HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) is the most effective workout to burn fat.
  • Don’t be intimidated by weights – they won’t make you bulky – they are great to get a toned body.
  • If you don’t know what equipment to use at the gym or how many repetitions you should do – find someone who may help you getting started (e.g. personal trainer; a workout plan online, follow a fitness blogger,…)

MENTAL STRENGTH

  • It is a big deal changing your life style. At the beginning you might feel as if you want to give up or you just can’t do – but don’t quit, you will later thank yourself for that.
  • Once you’ve committed to making that change – stick to it.
  • Stay accountable either to yourself or another person, start a blog, post pictures…
  • Don’t deprive yourself. I believe in a 80-20 approach. Eating clean 80% of the time and indulging 20% .This is approach is more successful for you in the long run.

MENTALITY (NO TIME & SPACE FOR EXCUSES)

  • Don’t make excuses! We are all busy but if you really want to make a positive change – find the time to workout.
  • Wake up earlier and get into the gym
  • Workout at home
  • Workout time = your personal healing time
  • Invest in yourself!
  • Get ready for work at the gym (take all you need to get ready for day with you)

CONSISTENCY

  • Be consistent
  • The longer your break in between workout sessions the more difficult it is to get back into it
  • You will see results much quicker when you are consistent with your workouts
  • Be patient

POSITIVE AFFIRMATION

  • Fitness does not only involve training your body but also your mind
  • Positive affirmation will help you in becoming stronger, both physically and mentally
  • Become more focused and energized
  • It may increase your endurance
  • Achieve your exercise goals
    • For example: Tell yourself everyday before you go to bed “I live a healthy lifestyle! I am dedicated to make healthy changes!…”
  • Try it out for a week and see how you like it.
  • Be kind to yourself – tell yourself what you like about your body.

STAYING MOTIVATED

  • Set small goals that are achievable – train towards achieving 10 push ups, 3 chin ups, running for a mile or what ever you want to improve. Once you achieved that goal – set another one.
  • Don’t focus too much on the number on your scale – rather measure your body fat %, the inches on your waist,…
  • Listen to your favorite music while working out.
  • Keep going even if you do not see immediate results .
  • Find like minded people
  • If you workout in the morning – the night before going to bed, put your workout clothes where you can see them once you woke up.

WORKOUT GEAR

  • Get yourself nice workout clothes – you will feel more motivated and confident.
  • Think about weight lifting gloves to keep your hands from getting callus
  • Don’t forget the music!
  • Use resistance bands.

CHALLENGING YOURSELF

  • Make your hard work worth it – challenge your body with every workout you do!
  • You will feel sore but you will be so proud of yourself. Soreness = muscle in progress
  • Increase the weight if necessary but always keep in mind that good form is more important than how heavy your weight is.

Keep an eye out for some detailed future posts on each category I have mentioned – I really hope you enjoyed this post and found some helpful tips or/and motivation.

Share this post if you think it could benefit anyone else to start their journey.

And I also would really appreciate your feedback, thoughts and experiences below in the comment section. Let’s chat!

START TODAY to make that positive change because if I can do it – YOU can do it!

 

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xx

61 thoughts on “How I Lost 60lbs: Part I Of My Journey To Healthy, Strong & Confident”

  3. Wow! You was beautiful before and your just as beautiful now. I took notes from this because I am on my own path to become thinner and happier with my body. Well done! I am go glad you had the confidence to share this ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank you soo much, Alanna, for your kind comment!

      I am wishing you all the best for your own journey and I am so glad I could give you a little inspiration.
      I know you will do fantastic!

      If there is anything in particular you are interested in let me know – I can address that in a future post.

      Have a great weekend.

      xxx

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    1. Thank you soo much, Emma, for your kind and encouraging words.

      It is definitely such a challenge changing habits I have had for such a long time but with dedication and patience everything is possible 🙂

      Have a wonderful weekend!

      xxx

      Like

      Reply

    1. You are soo sweet. Thanks a lot, Bianca for stopping by and leaving such a sweet comment.

      I also have started about a month ago with blooging. Welcome in the blogging world 🙂

      I am so looking forward reading about your thoughts on my posts and I can’t wait reading about your what you have to say on your posts.

      Good luck with your blog!

      Definitely follow me.

      xxx

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  8. Wow, this is impressive. Well done and thumbs up. The before and after photos show what one can achieve with dedication and a positive attitude to losing weight and working out. And the post is absolutely amazing – it covers everything! Thanks for writing it all up (it must have taken you ages) and sharing. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank you soo much for your lovely words.

      It is a topic that is so dear to my heart that I tried to cover everything and I am so glad you are liking it.

      It made me smile so much reading your comment!

      I am wishing you a wonderful weekend.

      xxx

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  11. Claudia, your reason for doing this is Awesome and it shows you have a ton of willpower. Although, you look beautiful before you look even more beautiful today. Being a woman I totally understand where you were coming from and am impressed at your outcome. Keep up the healthy lifestyle and thanks for teaching the rest of us how to stay motivated and determined.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Dear Cheryl,

      Again…you know how to talk to my heart. Thank you for these kind words. i truly appreciate you taking the time out and writing this.
      I have great joy if I can help motivate and inspire other to become the best version of themselves.

      xxx

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      Reply

  12. Great inspiration – I SO need to get back into shape myself. This menopause is killing me (mentally & physically)…
    I’ll be following you more often. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank you so much, Laura! You are so welcome on my blog and I am looking forward hearing about how your journey is going.

      I can imagine that menopause is such a big and uncomfortable change.

      I just recently published a post on silk pillows which are great if you are suffering from heat flashes at night (a friend in menopause also swears by it).

      https://claudiamariefit.com/2016/04/27/healthyalternatives-silk-pillow-cases-and-its-benefits-for-your-beauty-sleep/

      I hope you are having a great weekend!

      xx

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    1. Thank you soo much, Katie! I truly appreciate your support.

      I agree…it is a great feeling working out and taking that time out just for oneself 🙂

      I hope you are having a great weekend!

      xx

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      Reply

  14. WOW WOW WOW!!!! What an inspiration you are! Absolutely fantastic and congratulations and well done for achieving this massive goal. And thank you for sharing it with us!! xxx

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. YOU just made my day…no my weekend 🙂

      Thank you soo much for your kind words and it truly makes me happy that you liked it!

      Sending lots of Aloha your way!

      Have a wonderful and positive weekend, beautiful!

      xx

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      Reply

  17. Aloha beautiful Claudia!

    This post definitely gave me a boost to keep on going with my road towards health! And the pictures from Hawaii are making me so happy! It is my life long dream to visit Hawaii and I promised myself a trip there once I have reached a certain goal in my health project! Definitely following this blog! 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Mahalo (Thank you) soo much for your kind words and support. I just had to smile so much.

      I am sure you will do great on your journey to becoming healthier and I am glad you got a little boost out of my post.

      You will love Hawai’i as it is such a gem in the middle of the pacific. Each island is so different and rich in natural beauty. I think that is an awesome incentive…You can do it, girl!!!

      xx

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  19. Beautiful before & beautiful after! You done so well! I started to loose weight and then I just stopped, I keep making excuses for myself and this has really made me open my eyes and want to start my weight loss journey again (cos it’s needed believe me!). I’m so proud of you! I may not know you but seeing how happy you are now and the progress you’ve made makes me so happy for you! Xo

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Aloha my beautiful friend! I am so sorry I haven’t responded to your heartfelt message! Thank you for such kind words and it made me so happy that I could motivate you.
      I will post a new article that will hopefully give you some more motivation. Wanting it is already a step forward. I know it is difficult to start a new lifestyle but trust me it will be so worth it. YOU GO GIRL!!!!

      Xxxx

      Like

      Reply

    1. Aloha beautiful! Thank you so much for stopping by and your kind words.
      In the next couple days I will post another article that will hopefully motivate and help.
      Lose it is the one I used and loved looking at the weight loss graph going more and more towards where I wanted to be.

      If I can be of any help, please let me know.

      Sending lots of aloha your way!

      Xxx

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
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    1. Thanks so much Karishma! It totally means a lot to me!! It def wasn’t easy to get strarted with my journey and post about it but I am soo happy that can inspire or motivate the one or other lady to be a bit healthier.

      Your comment made my day 🙂

      xxx

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    1. Aloha 🙂

      I am extremely happy that you have found my blog and now are part of my blog ohana!
      WELCOME 🙂 I hope you’ll enjoy reading and sharing your thoughts on here, as well as getting inspired and motivated!

      xxx

      Like

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  26. Hi Claudia! This post is so inspiring! I am at that initial point right now, where change is starting to happen. After years of issues around food and eating, it’s time to really make a change and get focused on the really important aspect of weight – health. Thank you for writing this – you have so many great tips and motivating words here that I’m sure will only help more and more people.

    I don’t know you, I know, but I am so proud of you for taking control of your health and well-being. I can’t wait to start seeing lots of positivity as you have! 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Aloha beautiful soul,

      first of all I want to say how I am so incredibly proud of YOU because of realizing that there is something in your life that you want to change – and the great news is that YOU have the power to do so. Trust me, when I say that I know how hard it is to get this first step going (especially when one don’t see results right away) but I will be there inspiring and motivating you with more posts on the healthy aspects of losing fat and all the positive aspects that come with it (such as becoming more confident, independent, strong, healthy….)

      Also, I want to thank you so very much for taking the time out and leaving such a kind comment! I truly appreciate it!

      Last but not least: YOU GO GIRL!! You’ve got this!

      Sending lots of Aloha your way!

      xxx

      Like

      Reply

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