Today, 36 pounds lighter and nearing my weight-loss goal, I feel better than ever.
When I sat down to write my story for Shredder of the Month, I had trouble putting it into words. To fuel my insight and inspiration, I took a look back at fellow Shredders’ stories and was humbled to be in the same category as these unbelievable men, women, and above all, athletes.
My journey is not an abnormal one—I hadn’t been exercising for years. Laziness was part of it, sure, but mainly I couldn’t find any workout that intrigued me enough to keep coming back. A friend suggested I try Shred415. As a former athlete, she knew that I would not only love the high intensity workouts, but also the dedication and passion from teachers whose instruction so closely aligned with the coaches I loved over the years.
I started participating in Shred415 challenges, like Sweet ’16 and Shred415 Olympics and they played a huge part in my growth as a Shredder. It’s so easy to get comfortable with where I think my limits lie and these challenges reminded me what I’m capable of when I push myself out of my comfort zone.
In addition to being a dedicated Shredder, I’m an active Weight Watchers member and go to meetings every Friday morning after 6 AM with Fadil. I joined WW around the same time I started Shred415, and it was quite an eye-opener. I knew I had put on weight, but didn’t realize just how far I had gotten until my first meeting when I stepped on the scale and was nearing 200 lbs. I have struggled with my weight on and off in the past for various reasons—namely an unhealthy relationship and a job that requires constant socializing surrounded by food and alcohol. A few years before I found Shred415, I tried to lose excess weight with a personal trainer and an incredible strict diet. Although the weight came off quickly, it was impossible to maintain and I found myself right back at square one.
Today, 36 pounds lighter and nearing my weight-loss goal, I feel better than ever because of two very important things that Shred415 and WW have instilled in me—sustainability and balance.
To become Shredder of the Month, submit your Shred415 success story to [email protected]. Whomever is chosen will receive an unlimited month of Shred415 classes. He or she will also be recognized on our blog and social media channels.