Q: Describe your life before the Body-for-LIFE Challenge?

Stressful, I would eat as a form of stress relief.  When I tried to diet, I would eat less but not better, I would do cardio but never lift weights.  I was basically uneducated.

Q: What made you finally decide to take that first step and enter the Challenge?

One of the final straws was when I picked out 6-7 swimsuits to try on and they were all very cute but they looked horrible on me.  I just couldn’t take it anymore, I was disgusted with myself.

Q: What were your very first impressions of the program? Did you struggle or was it liberating?

Originally, it looked a little intimidating because I had never lifted weights.  I definitely struggled and I definitely felt liberated.  It takes self control and discipline which were hard for me but once I got into a routine of eating often and working out it was very liberating, I had more energy and looked forward to seeing a difference in the way my clothes fit.   

Q: Talk about the moment you first began to see changes in your body and/or outlook?

Around the 4th week, I started noticing a change in the way my clothes fit which helped renew my motivation.

Q: How did you feel on the very last day of your Challenge?

Amazing, I can’t describe the amount of satisfaction I got out of finishing the goal I had set for myself and knowing that I gave it my all. 

Q: What was the reaction of your friends and family to the amazing changes you made?

My family and friends were amazed at the differences.  The biggest reactions I received were from friends I hadn’t seen in a while, they were completely shocked.  

Q: Do you still follow the Body-for-LIFE program?

Yes, I am not as strict now that the challenge is over but I still follow the program.

Q: If someone were to ask your advice about starting—and finishing—the Challenge, what would you tell them?

I would say to make a commitment to yourself, start the program, and stick with it.  Plan your meals and prepare easy snacks to take on the go.   If an obstacle comes your way, don’t give up…get back on the program and complete the twelve weeks.

Q: How has your life changed since doing the Challenge?

I feel happier, healthier and I’m more active with my kids.

Q: Where do you think you’d be if you had never done the Challenge?

Unhappy with the way I look and feel and disappointed with the lack of ability/knowledge to change it.

Q: What have you been up to since first joining BFL?

I have been enjoying every minute of life with my kids, my family, and my friends.  I’ve concentrated on bettering my life in other areas. 
                                                                                                                   
Q: After going through the 12 weeks, how was your mindset different than it was before? Were you able to face challenges in your life with more confidence?

Absolutely! The success I’ve had with the BFL program has empowered me to address other areas of my life that needed improvement.  The achievement I felt by completing the challenge motivates me to set more goals for myself. 

Q: What is your favorite free day meal?

I have a weakness for movies and love movie theater popcorn with lots of popcorn salt.  An almost equal favorite would be a caramel mocha latte. 

Q: How have you spread the word of Body-for-LIFE to other folks?

I’m constantly approached by people who notice I’ve made a change.  When I hear someone talking about wanting to lose weight I can’t help but talk about Body-for-LIFE.  The program works and I want others to experience the same success I have had.   

Q Being that you won the challenge in 2007. How have you continued to live this Lifestyle? And what has been the most difficult part? If anything.

It has become a habit because I like the way I feel when I am in shape.  The most difficult part has been my large sweet tooth but I felt so great after the contest that I refuse to go backwards.    

Q: Current goals:

My goals are to:  maintain good health, help provide a quality childhood to my children, enjoy life and to feel younger than my real age.

Q: Quotes that Inspire:

“Change is the essence of life.  Be willing to surrender what you are for what you could become.” ~Author unknown

“There are no shortcuts to anyplace worth going.” ~Beverly Sills

“Nothing is impossible if you have a foolproof step by step action plan and motivation to make your dreams a reality.” ~Arina Nikitina

Q: Define Success:

Success is the amazing feeling you get when you accomplish something great.  It is exceeding expectations and feeling satisfied with the results.