Motivating Stories From Local Women
Every woman has a story to tell, and no two stories are alike.Meet the women who have persevered through challenges and tribulations and come out the other side stronger than ever. These unique individuals have seen their fair share of adversity but continue to inspire those around them with the lessons they have learned and their love of life. Read on for four truly motivating stories by the women who experienced them firsthand.
Photography by Emily Long / Photos taken on location at BODE
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Amy Waters, Hixson
An allergist appointment in the spring of 2012 changed my life. When the nurse told me to step on the scale, I politely declined. After a little back and forth, I stepped on the scale and was shocked and disgusted with the number I saw. I was already at an unhealthy weight and had not weighed myself in over four years. I went home after that appointment and immediately signed up for Weight Watchers. I knew I had to make a change. I started my journey the very next day.
It took some time, but I eventually cut sodas from my diet and learned not to waste my calories on empty carbs. My weight loss took off like gangbusters, but it didn’t take me long to determine that some weeks were not going to result in weight loss. Still, by the end of the first month, I was down 14 pounds, and by the end of the second month, I was down a total of 26 pounds. People were starting to notice, and my clothes fit differently.
After losing 65 pounds, I hit a plateau. I decided to add exercise, so I joined a gym for the first time in my life and started with a Zumba class. I tried a yoga class, which was A LOT harder than I expected, and the spin class was impossible. I finally found an exercise regimen that I could build upon, and it worked. Before I knew it, I had lost 100 pounds and was able to do all the exercise classes. I also took up running since it is easy to do when I have to travel for work. I especially like a HIIT class taught by Lisa Blevins at the Sportsbarn, and finding a workout I enjoy has been instrumental in my success.
Eighteen months after I started my journey, I was down 145 pounds and happier than ever. Maintaining this weight for the last six years has been challenging, but I’ve learned to closely monitor my weight and make adjustments to my diet as needed. I live my life in a new way, making the right choices when it comes to food and ensuring a consistent exercise routine. I am an avid runner and refer to myself as an exercise junky. This healthy lifestyle now comes second nature, and I am so thankful to that nurse who made me step on the scale that day! HS
