Colby's Success Story

My name is Colby. I lost 200 lbs.

Before my weight-loss journey I was considered by medical terms “very obese.” I lived a lifestyle of bad eating and no exercising. I ate one, maybe two large meals a day of either fast food or my family’s very southern-style cooking. Even though I worked a very physical job, my body was accustomed to the work. 

I’d been on the heavy side my entire life and others in my family were overweight, so I hadn’t given my weight much thought.

In 2009 a severe knee injury at work, in addition to the coming birth of my first child, caused me to re-evaluate my lifestyle choices. It was explained to me by the surgeon that my weight contributed to the severity of the injury. During a year of physical rehab I gained a few things: strength in my knee, knowledge of how exercise could help me, and unfortunately more weight due to the decrease in everyday activity. I finally realized how my weight could and would affect my entire life. 

I realized I wanted to be a good example of healthy living to my children.

The biggest challenge I faced when I started was getting it out of my head that I was “meant to be fat” or that it was “just how I was made.” It wasn’t. However, my idea of what an average fit man weighed seemed like an impossible goal. So I set small goals. Goals I could actually achieve. 

When I began working out I used an old bike and some free weights furnished by my employer’s gym. Not ideal, but it was a start. After a while it became obvious I needed access to more equipment and could use some advice from someone educated in physical fitness and nutrition. That’s when I joined CoxHealth Fitness Center Willard. 

I worked closely with the awesome staff members to develop new workout options to continue to challenge my body. I was also introduced to a nutritionist who helped me form a lifestyle of eating to support my personal goals.

I now go on bike rides with my family and I can surf again, which is something I haven’t been able to do since childhood. I took my daughter on her first rollercoaster ride without worrying if I could fit. I have so much energy and strength and just generally feel so much better. 

Every time I get to do something I previously couldn’t do because of my size, I get even more motivated to make health and fitness a priority.

I don’t ever again want to be that guy who is too uncomfortable to sit in a booth at a restaurant. Nothing brings me more happiness than when my daughter yells, “Daddy, let’s workout.”

For anyone beginning a weight loss journey remember, you don’t have to try to achieve everything in one day. It won’t happen that way. Unrealistic goals set you up for failure. Set small goals that motivate you to challenge yourself but are achievable. And the biggest secret to success–start NOW. Don’t wait until tomorrow. Start right now, with your next meal. Once you reach your goal you will feel so awesome and have the motivation to reach your next one. You can do it!