Jillian Michaels, A Workout Buddy, and Portion Control

by Beth
(Minneapolis, Minnesota)

Recently, I lost 110 lbs.! Initially I lost the weight by using the Jillian Michaels workout video series.

I had always been very slender, and never had a problem keeping off weight. I was active and fit, regularly running and biking.

But then I had 4 babies in 6 years. My weight ballooned, and because I had babies so fast, I never lost the weight that I had gained for each child. I knew I was carrying the weight because I went up 6 sizes in clothes, and I felt really bad about myself.

But I was also chasing after 4 babies, and I wasn’t making time for myself or eating properly. I would think about a workout plan, but always had an excuse. That excuse was mostly “I don’t have time.”

My mom suggested that I look at Jillian Michaels video series. I started with her 30 Day Shred. The best part about this video is that the workouts are short but hard. Each workout is 25 minutes, including warm-up and cool down. I thought, “I can find 25 minutes in my day.”

Don’t get me wrong; Jillian packs a ton into each workout. You do weights, cardio and abs at a very fast pace.

My sister-in-law and I started using this series at the same time. For 30 days, we did the 30-Day Shred, and we lost weight. But more importantly, in those 30 days, we found time in our day to appreciate exercise. It became part of our routine, and a necessary part of our day. As workout buddies, we inspire each other and keep each other on track.

At the end of the 30 days, I had lost 10 pounds.

From there, I made progress. I’ve never been one for diets; I think it’s about retraining yourself how to eat. So I just started with portion control, and limiting sodas. I bought smaller plates, bowls and glasses. I drank more water, and I worked out 5 days a week, whenever I could.

The 30-Day Shred was a gateway for me back into exercise and health. To date, I have lost 110 lbs in 18 months. I’m now at my pre-baby weight and loving every minute of it. I’m training for a triathlon and I’ve run a half marathon. But Jillian helped me take the first step toward health, wellness and weight loss.