Lost 17 kg (progress pics)

Hi,

So yeah, like the subject says, I lost about 17 kg, maybe a bit more because when I was at my heaviest, I avoided a scale like the plague.

In short, it was a huge struggle, and I'm still trying to lose about 8 kg. This battle started in November 2011. Since August 2012, I haven't lost any kg's, but I have toned and firmed by doing Pole Fitness.

So here is my recipe for success:
1) Make a lifestyle change. Don't diet like crazy and then revert back to nasty old habits. I cut out refined foods and sugars, and I more than doubled my fresh fruit and vegetable intake.

2) Have a support network. Confide your fears and accomplishments to someone. My gorgeous sister has been an inspiration and a constant good influence. She lost nearly 70 kg, so go add her as a friend! (search hbhorak)
My husband has been my shoulder to cry on and my boxing coach.
These two people are amazing and I love them more than life itself.

3) Weight training!! There's a saying: "Train insane, or remain the same." So true. Somehow women think that weights will magically turn them into a bodybuilder. So they spend hours doing cardio. Please, people, cut down on the cardio (30 mins a day is good) and increase weight training. Then, use heavy weights, without hurting yourself.

4) Have patience. There is no miracle drug or cure. It takes time and commitment to lose fat. Also, don't lose hope if you stopped losing weight. I've been stuck for more than half a year, but I continued and noted that my body shape gradually changed.

5) Keep a photo diary. It's good to see your progress. Even if it's embarrassing to see yourself in underwear. Look, I'm not proud of the before photos. Actually I feel horrible when I show it to people. But it is so amazing to look at the photos in sequence and then realize what awesomeness you have achieved.

6) Pole Fitness! It is awesome and horrible and amazing and difficult... It hurts so bad, but wow, I can't begin to explain how great it makes you feel. I'm so much stronger than I used to be (and I was freakishly strong to begin with... technically, I am a superhero now) and I have rock hard abs. 'Nuff said.

Here are my photos. Please don't be harsh, because like I said, it's a work in progress. I am struggling to lose around my hips and thighs. (I have a big butt, and I cannot lie....hahaha) Feel free to add me as a friend!