With obesity being one of the most prevalent issues in America, we can’t help but wonder how we got here. Is it the convenience of fast foods? The time to find for exercise, that most of us don’t have? Or the expenses of making healthier food choices? No one knows. Genetics, lifestyle, environment have all been attributed to this epidemic and with all of the new health initiatives why aren’t we seeing a difference?
Raquel Clarke did something that we don’t hear enough about. Instead of going on a fad diet or eliminating carbohydrates, she modified dietary choices and introduced a workout regimen and has since lost 65 lbs.
How did Raquel find the courage, determination and time to completely change her lifestyle around?
It was in January 2012 that Raquel realized a drastic lifestyle change was necessary for her health.
“One day I was heading to work and a very elderly woman, in her late 80's, stopped me with tears in her eyes. She told me I have a pretty face, but that I was too obese! She went on to tell me that her granddaughter died right before she turned 21 because she was almost 300lbs and did not pay attention to the warning signs of her body. Sound familiar? Yeah, imagine how I felt. That woman was sent to me. Her words changed my life. I worked out that night and started my journey.”
These changes weren’t easy Raquel had to fail a few times before she could master the transition. “It took me over 2 years of crying, quitting and trying again to get it right” said the young woman. At first her goals were impractical, she aspired to lose extreme amounts of weight in very short periods of time. After realizing that these goals might be unrealistic she re-evaluated, did some research and started small. She began with a goal of 5 lbs. and every time she reached that goal set it at another 5. That’s when Raquel started seeing results.
Raquel incorporated an intense workout regimen with a healthier diet. Weight gain is defined as caloric intake exceeding that of calories expended through physical activity. When you find a balance between the two is when you will see weight loss or maintenance, depending on your goal.
Her fitness routine consists of 4-6 days a week with “Spin, Zumba, Pilates, Weight Training and Personal Training sessions”. This was very different for someone who once led a strictly sedentary lifestyle. Increasing physical activity is associated with increasing insulin uptake into cells, weight loss, stronger bones, healthier heart and many other benefits.
Her diet consisted of portion control “If it will spill out of the palm of my hand, which is about a cup, then it's too much” said Raquel. She also increased vegetable intake, drinks more water, eliminated fried foods, fatty meals and soda and admits to occasionally rewarding herself with sweets. Depriving ourselves of our favorite foods will not work, it is moderation that is key when it comes to healthy living. By making these particular changes Raquel began feeling and looking better continuing to fuel her motivation.
Although Raquel has experienced a lot of success already she also endured obstacles that could have hindered her progress. The most difficult one was the lack of support from some of the closest people to her; family and friends.
“I just learned to not care or rely on others. All I ever really need is myself and it took some time to master that. I am in a different state of mind and what other people think or say doesn't phase me anymore. I lost over 60lbs., how many people can say that? I've done some amazing things on my own, I can't let other people deter my success.”
To find success in weight loss and weight maintenance the key is to be mentally prepared to make certain changes. Many diseases are lifestyle related such as lung cancer and smoking, obesity and diet, type 2 diabetes and diet. By making lifestyle changes we can decrease the risk of comorbidities, but it is making these changes and making them permanent that can be the most difficult. Raquel continues to stay motivated because of the results that she sees in her appearance and overall well being. The most rewarding part for her is her newfound love for fitness and how she can be an inspiration for others.
“Through this journey, I have learned that I am a pretty damn strong person. I learned that I have a great deal of self-control, will power and determination. I also learned to accept myself and that no matter how much I try to cover up, people will still see a big girl and that’s OK. I am still learning to take successes and failures in stride and not dwell in the moment!!”
Where is she now?
Raquel is pursing her dream of becoming a dance instructor. She is continuously inspired and motivated by one of her Zumba instructors who has become her “mentor”. Recently Raquel was also given the opportunity to be featured in her new fitness video Zumba Sentao, zumba with a chair. While continuing to incorporate fitness into her every day life Raquel still works towards better eating as well. Although it is hard work the results are worth the effort, a healthier life.
Looking back, Raquel offers herself some advice preparing for her journey.
“Old Raquel, prepared to be mocked, misunderstood, hated, laughed at and looked down upon. Small minds cannot comprehend the greatness that you have planned for your future. Take your time, learn, and disregard the negativity.”
Raquel’s story is nothing less than an inspiration. Through her hard work, dedication and determination she has achieved so much. Without the clutch of a fad diet or restricting food groups Raquel proves that a healthier lifestyle can be obtained by moderation and self-control. Today she is working on becoming a dance instructor to continue incorporating fitness into everyday life.
From Raquel:
To the person starting their journey, I leave them with a quote from Earl Nightingale.
“Don’t let the fear of the time it will take to accomplish something stand in the way of your doing it. The time will pass anyway; We might just as well put that passing time to the best possible use.”
To follow Raquel and her future success checkout her blog documenting her journey to a healthier life:
