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First Name: Catherine
Age: 25
Family Status: Single
Occupation: Medical Assistant
Hometown: Webster, Iowa
Pounds or Inches Lost: I have lost 84 pounds since I started my journey in April, 2009!
Height: 5'6"
Waist: 29.5"
Starting Weight: 243 pounds
Current Weight: 159 pounds
Catherine's Weight Loss Story!
 When did you become unhappy with your weight?
I was always unhappy with my weight. People would make fun of me because of it and I started to have limitations on what I could do. I quit smoking and it kept creeping up and I finally realized I needed to make a change.
What made you decide to lose weight?
I new that I was going to be in a healthcare field, and couldn't fathom the thought of telling other people to be healthy if I wasn't healthy myself. I started changing my mindset and my body started to follow.
What were the most important changes you made to lose weight?
Eating. My diet has changed so much since I first started and there are just some foods I will not eat anymore. And the best thing is, I don't even want or crave those foods anymore. I would rather crave apples and veggies than burgers and fries.
What was most challenging about losing weight?
Fitting in exercise along with working full time and taking night class. I have come to realize though, if you want to make a change there are no excuses. You just do it, and that's that. I now can say I couldn't live without exercise and am so glad its part of my daily routine.
How long did it take you to start to see results?
It took me about 2 months to start to see physical changes when I lost about 20 pounds. That's when other people started to notice too.
How long did it take for you to reach your current weight?
It took me about 18 months to reach my current weight. People have to realize this is a lifestyle change, not a fad diet. I will never go back to the way I ate before I started.
How long have you maintained your weight loss and how do you do it?
I have maintained it for about 6 months so far. I exercise at least 3-5 times a week and I eat in moderation. I never deprive myself of anything and I have learned to distinguish when my body is full. I have learned to determine if I'm eating for pleasure or because I'm bored. I am no longer the person I use to be.
How has your life changed now that you've lost weight?
It has changed so much. What hasn't changed? Shopping is a way better experience. Its sad to say but people treat me differently and I am more welcomed by society. This summer, I will be wearing my first two-piece swimsuit and I have never in my life worn a two-piece. Every day is a new challenge and I'm ready to finally begin my life.
Catherine's Weight Loss Tips!
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 Weight loss tip #1:
Count calories! You never really know unless you count them.
Weight loss tip #2:
Drink water! You need to stay replenished and this is the best drink for you!
Weight loss tip #3:
Have snacks in between meals! This prevents you from overeating at the next meal.
Weight loss tip #4:
Support! Whether in the fitness forum online or real life.
Weight loss tip #5:
Never give up! Tomorrow is a new day.
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Catherine's Weight Loss Eating Plan!
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 Breakfast:
Oatmeal made with water, a banana, and two eggs with orange juice.
Lunch:
A garden salad with grilled chicken, water and fruit.
Dinner:
Lean meat such as chicken, brown rice, and vegetable, fruit and water.
Snacks or Mini Meals:
Almonds, yogurt with granola, carrots with hummus.
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Catherine's Weight Loss Workouts!
 Weight Training:
I alternate days. 3 days a week would consist of weight training. One day I would focus on my biceps, triceps, and arms. The next day would be my legs and abs.
Cardiovascular:
I like to run. I like to switch up my routine. One day it could be the elliptical trainer, stair climber, treadmill or even cycling. No less than one hour per cardio workout.
(information from ShapeFit - http://www.shapefit.com/success/success-stories-weight-loss-catherine.html)
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