I’m 4-feet 11-inches, and all my life I’ve been a plus-sized girl. But when I hit 253 pounds, I knew it was time to make changes and get the weight off. I like that the Thrive Challenge is so non-judgmental. It’s real people, not just models or people who are already healthy and fit. It shows you that anyone can start, no matter where you’re at in your life. It’s an everybody thing, and that’s inspiring to me.
Before the Thrive Challenge, I used to eat everything.
If it looked good, smelled good and tasted good, I’d eat it. Now I’m getting more exercise, am looking carefully at my food choices, and have found that I love eating salads. When I think that I need an accountability partner and can’t find anyone, I always have the Thrive Challenge. I’m down to 188 pounds and am loving the way I feel. I’m learning healthy food tips while cooking with my vegan son.
I workout with weights and cardio for an hour every work day.
The only thing my “exercise” routine used to include was moving from the table to the sofa and then to the bed. I’m now getting up early and am at the gym by 5:30 a.m. I really like the elliptical for getting me those extra steps. I need them — I love competing against my friends to see who can get the most steps on their Fitbit! I also bought some big jugs of water to use as weights when I’m back at home. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to workout.
I’ve learned that sticking with the changes you’re making is about your mindset.
The Thrive Challenge has helped me stay focused on one step at a time, one pound at a time. I never expected to win $10,000. When I found out I won, I cried! Now I can make plans to fix my roof. The Thrive Challenge has given me a new lease on life. I want people to know that change can be obtainable for anyone.
—Florice Nims, Walmart Customer; Hampton, VA; $10K Winner
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