1 year and 56 pounds later... (with pics)

Hello Everyone!

It's been a year since I started my weight loss journey on MFP. I am officially down 56lbs! I am still about 13lbs from goal, but I thought this would be a good time to share my success so far.

I am 5'9". Left side: 238ish | Right side: 182ish



I started the Couch to 5K program on May 1st. In August I ran my first 5K in 33:06 and just last week I ran 10K in 1:06:58. I've had three surgeries on my left knee, so being able to run now makes me really happy! I tried running at my heaviest and I was in so much pain I always quit. Now, it's my favorite form of exercise.

A few things I've learned that I'd like to pass along...

-Don't let the thought of the number of days, months or years it will take you to accomplish your goal weight scare you. The time will pass regardless of what you're doing with it. You might as well spend it wisely.

-One terrible meal won't make you fat, just like one healthy meal won't make you skinny. Life happens. Parties happen. Pizza happens.

-It's not always about the number on the scale. Sometimes it's about the great workout you had or when you reached for yogurt instead of the doughnut. The little victories are just as important as the big ones.

-Speaking of little victories.. a loss is a loss no matter how small. Don't get frustrated if you've only lost a fraction of a pound. It's not worth your energy to get upset.


Best of luck to all my fellow MFPals. Don't give up - a success story is within your reach!