(in Lynn Jones own words)

It was August 2010 when I moved back to PEI. I had spent years of not taking care of myself and it showed. I was exhausted, unmotivated, and completely disgusted with myself and what I had become. 

At 291 pounds I had reach my highest weight yet and was experiencing health related problems because of the excess weight and over eating. I was beyond sick and tired of feeling like a prisoner in my own body, and making excuses for why I couldn’t do it. Enough was enough and something within me finally snapped. 

So I made a plan to take back my life and to make my health a priority. It was in September when I finally returned to the gym after being away for years. Although I was beyond terrified entering the doors that first day, I did it and I never looked back. Terry set me up on a workout program that matched my current physical abilities. With a lot of hard work and determination, I became stronger, developed more energy, and most important, I found the confidence that I had been missing for so long. I continued to change up my workout program every two to three months to challenge my muscles, and to avoid becoming bored. My typical workout routine consists of a combination of weight training, running and other cardio activities. I also enjoy attending Zumba and boot camp classes when I have the opportunity.

Figuring out how to get my eating under control was a big piece of the puzzle that needed to be sorted out. I have been a member of Weight Watchers since November 2010, and have found huge success in this program and learning how to eat properly. I also joined the Biggest Loser and Town and Training programs through the Iron Haven Gym in the first half of 2011. Learning about nutrition, exercise, and being in a supportive group environment has been both informative and inspiring. 

I have worked long and hard to get to where I am today. Will power and determination were key in inspiring me to achieve my goals so far, however they weren’t the only two things needed. I learned all about personal triggers and how to deal more effectively with these emotions rather than eat my way through them. I developed a strong support circle which includes family, friends, program members, gym members, and coworkers. 

I made my spiritual life a priority again which has given the courage and hope I needed to make necessary changes. I learned to stop being my own worst enemy and to be realistic when setting goals. 

My biggest goal for the upcoming year is to focus on my running, and one mile at a time I will work my way up to competing in the PEI half marathon in October 2012.

With loosing 111 pounds so far, I am now 34 pounds away from achieving my total weight loss goal of 145 pounds. What helps keep me going is that I know I am not alone in this weight loss journey and life style transformation. To those of you reading this that may identify with my story, I can only encourage you to not be afraid to take that first step and never look back. It is hard work, but you are worth it.