The Featured Fit Gal! - Mindy Irish Fitness

We’re taking stories from real gals on their real journeys of putting a new body and lifestyle in place. Several times a month we’ll share these stories and share the why, challenges, and encouragement that each gal has to offer. Interested in sharing your story? Think about it…..someone needs to hear it!

Email Mindy here to start the Featured Fit Gal Success Story Process!

Meet Shannon Hobbs!
Starting weight: 326 lbs
Current weight: 272 lbs
Goal weight: 165 lbs

What were your old habits and lifestyle?

I can honestly say that I have never been at a healthy weight/lifestyle. I yo-yo dieted throughout middle and high school, college, all the way until last May. I ate when I was bored, skipped meals, ate late after ball games, study sessions, party nights out, working 2nd and 3rd shift after college. I was prescribed an anti-depressant to help treat postpartum depression after my first child was born in 2005 and gained 70 lbs in a year. After that, I honestly lost all hope of ever getting back into an 18 (like in college) much less a 10 or 12. I felt hopeless and beat. As you can/will see, that feeling has changed drastically!

Why did you make the change?

Last May, my family and I were transitioning out of the Army and life was chaotic. I had NO control over my husband’s career, our financial future, we were living with my parents in Michigan, and things were just very stressful. I decided, with the help of God and my mother, that I may not have control over a whole lot, but I do have control (once and for all) over how I treat my body. I did not want Aubrianna (my 6 year old) to go to school and have the “fat mom.” I wanted to lead by example, be able to continue to run and play with them, and live a long and healthy life. I was 28 years old and starting to have some knee and hip pain and decided ENOUGH WAS ENOUGH!

What diet/lifestyle do you currently follow?

I keep a strict count of my calories. I have found the accountability really makes me think about whether the food will really taste as good as the number that will pop up on my Calorie Counter. I plan meals the night before. I buy as much organic/natural/”from the ground or a mother” food as our single income family can afford (which is quite a lot because I watch the local ads and stock up when I find really excellent deals!).

Diet is only part of the equation!! I work out like a mad woman! I LOVE to work out! I am a HUGE Jillian Michaels fanatic (my two year old can recognize her face on just about anything and screams out “Jill Jill”). I am a member at the YMCA, and do 45-60 minutes of cardio 5 days a week (alternating between the elliptical, HIIT on the treadmill, rowing machine to ensure muscle confusion) followed by strength training a different muscle group each day. I enjoy the Hip Hop Hustle, Dance Fusion, and Zumba classes. I am getting ready to try a Strength and Endurance class and a Cycling class. If I can’t make it to the gym, I have an arsenal of DVDs and free weights, medicine ball, jump rope, etc at home! There are absolutely NO excuses anymore!!

What was the hardest part of your journey so far?

The hardest part of my journey was definitely learning the fine line between deprivation and moderation! I still enjoy foods that Jillian would never approve of, but I do so in moderation! For example, I LOVE Papa Johns pizza. One slice is 330 calories. I treat that one slice like it is gold when I allow it once a month. I enjoy one square of a Hershey’s bar if I have a craving for chocolate! I do not consume ANYTHING artificially sweetened (diet soda, sugar free candy, Splenda, etc) unless I personally put my Stevia in it.

What have your results been so far?

I have sought God’s guidance, strength, and perseverance to make this a LIFELONG change! I have so much energy! My marriage is stronger and stronger every day! I sleep better at night (which I should mention is very important…8 hours MINIMUM a night right here!). I enjoy learning new recipes, workout routines/moves, tips, etc. I look forward to eating healthy foods; my body actually CRAVES healthy, natural foods! And the crazy thing is….I’m not even done yet!! How awesome is that?!?!

What words of encouragement can you offer to others?

If I CAN do it, YOU CAN do it! 326 lbs. Size 28 pushing a size 30. 3X shirts. Seat belt extender on the airplane. Knee and Hip pain. Shortness of breath climbing one flight of steps. That all seems a LIFETIME ago, and it was only 8 months ago! Make YOU a priority! SLEEP!! Surround yourself with SUPPORTIVE people! Ditch the GUILT, PAST, and NEGATIVITY!

…….and to that we say:

Congrats Shannon on taking the initiative to change, adopt new habits, and set a wonderful example for your family. Go Fit Gal….we believe in you! Thank you for sharing your story!