How I Pushed Through When the Scale Stopped Changing and Lost Over 50 Pounds
Courtney Conway on her 58-pound weight loss.
Photographs courtesy Courtney Conway.
Changing your body takes hard work, persistence, and dedication. Here’s one Philadelphian’s story. Want to share your Transformation Story? Email ccunningham@phillymag.com.
Who: Courtney Conway, 28, team lead for a pediatric practice, from Port Richmond
Why I wanted to make a change: “I knew that I was very unhealthy and I always wanted to change that, but I could never find the right program to stick with. What inspired me the most was after my girlfriend got engaged and asked me to be her maid of honor. I knew I had to make a change; I was so self conscious, and I could not give a speech in front of a big crowd feeling uncomfortable in my own skin.”
Starting weight: 243
Ending weight: 185
How long it took: “My transformation started about three years ago.”
What else is different: “For me, the biggest change was how much stronger I became and how much happier I am. The rush of adrenaline when I go for a deadlift PR is so exciting to me. I struggled with my weight for a very long time and feeling comfortable in my own skin has been amazing.”
How I changed my diet: “I use MyFitnessPal to help me stay on track. I eat a lot of veggies and protein during the week. I still allow myself a piece of candy or a handful of French fries sometimes too! On the weekends, I don’t eat as clean as I do during the week, but my portions are definitely smaller. I pretty much think ‘everything in moderation’ is a key term to live by. I would never deprive myself of anything. I think writing down what you eat on MyFitnessPal or on a piece of paper helps you stay on track.”
“Just because the number on the scale is staying the same doesn’t mean that your body is not changing.”
How I changed my fitness plan: “Before I started my journey, I was not working out at all. When I first started working out at 19125 Fitness, I would go two times a week. Now I go four to five times a week. We do a lot strength and conditioning training, along with cardio workouts.”
The hardest part: “The hardest part for me was when the number on the scale stopped changing, even though I was still eating right and working out. I got through it by talking with Donnie [Welte] and staying away from the scale. Just because the number on the scale is staying the same doesn’t mean that your body is not changing.”
What I want everyone to know: “Anyone can do it, and it takes time. You have to dedicate yourself to the gym and to eating the right way. Results do not happen overnight, but if you stick to you, you can succeed.”
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