I Hit My GOAL!!! From 265 to 172.5, (before and after Pics)

I started my journey to health because I was in a lot of back pain since I have three herniated discs. I wanted to lose weight but maintain my lean body mass. I started at 265, able to bench a max of 200 lbs, so my strength was important to me. I lost most of my weight from the end of November 2012 (265 lbs) to July (182 lbs) by switching to eating more vegetables, less processed food, and more healthy fats; as well as exercising on the elliptical 3 times a week and lifting heavy once a week. I began dating someone in June/July of last year so I struggled just to maintain my weight loss, let alone actually lose those last few pounds to my goal of 175.

This past month I renewed my efforts to continue those last 10 pounds or so to get to my goal and I reached it!!! I went from a size 24 pants and XXL (mens) shirts, to a size 12/14 pants and size L women's shirts.

The only thing that has been hard about my new body is my extra bottom padding must have hid the fact that I had an extra long tailbone because it is a real PIA now I have to have a cushion in my car so I can drive without feeling like I'm riding right on it. I also have a hard time shaving my underarms, probably because with the extra muscle, the indentation is extra deep...so it can be a challenge.

I love being able to go into a store now and buy clothes that fit...and after being overweight/obese my whole life, that is something that I've never experienced. I also don't have a perfect model body. I have had 2 children, and with my second was 265 and 60" around....I don't think anyone's skin can snap back from that. But, I'm happy with my success. My kids and my girlfriend are proud of me.

My life has changed because of this, and I'm the happiest I've ever been in my life.



This photo is when I was at 223 compared to now.



And the last before and after.