Transformation Tuesday with Valerie Moylan!
I love this woman! We have been Instagram friends since I remember and she has an amazing attitude to just KEEP GOING! Temptation is fierce just moments before success - you got through that! Well done Valerie and thank you SO SO much for sharing your story with us all! You must feel amazing! Please welcome and give Valerie a warm "virtual" round of applause...
How old are you and please can you share your health and fitness journey to date?
I am a 30 year old mum to a gorgeous and super active 20month old. The biggest change I made was in 2010 when I forged a better relationship with food and exercise. I had gotten to the point of my weight when I stopped caring about what I was putting in my mouth because of all the weight I had gained. I started working out daily (cardio and weights machines) but the biggest change I made was my diet. In simple terms, I just ate less crap. I also learnt portion control. I used to eat till I felt sick. Since having my son in 2013 (where I gained 25kg during my pregnancy - even though I continued to eat relatively well and exercised 3-4 times a week) it has been a progressive journey. I am now doing Kayla Itsines' Bikini Body Guides and am enjoying the short workouts and structure.
What types of foods did you used to eat as a kid and young adult? What's changed since then?
As a young adult I put whatever I wanted in my mouth, and when I started a new relationship (with my now husband) and got comfortable, we are a lot of takeout (KFC, Hungry Jacks, you name it) and it didn't help that he has a super-fast metabolism. So as I slowly expanded, he stayed the same. When I hit rock bottom and my heaviest weight, I made a committed decision to change my habits. Move more, and eat less crap. And now, with a son who LOVES food, I want to create good food habits from young (but still allow treats).
Do you play any sports or what sports do you like watching?
I don't particularly enjoy watching any sports. Or play anything. Is working out a sport? Haha.
What are your interests, passion and what makes you smile?
I love baking, and creating. While I don't get to do it very often anymore I love creating fondant decorations for cakes and cupcakes. My family makes me smile the brightest. Especially my little boy, who's so cute and mischievous and runs around with all the energy in the world!
What was the catalyst that sparked your lifestyle change?
To be honest it was when my sister in law asked me to be a bridesmaid in her wedding. And I was not happy with my weight and did not want to stand next to her at the alter feeling self-conscious, fat and frumpy. I wanted to stand there with confidence and being happy in my own skin.
What are some of your dreams/goals you hope to achieve over the next 12 months?
It probably won't happen in the next 12 months, but I would love to run a half marathon at some stage (and then maybe eventually a full one haha)
What tips would you like to share with my readers about your transformation?
Keep going. There's so many times when you don't see the progress you want, had a bad few days with food, get on the scale and the number has increased. Just keep going. This is the rest of your life. There's no deadline. And take lots of progress photos! You will wish you had taken more "before" shots!!
You can find Valerie on Instagram and watch her achieve her goal to run the half marathon. Lets cheer her on for support!!
Don’t forget to share your story with me HERE! I would love to feature YOU to the WORLD!!
Happy Transformation Tuesday!
Dani Xx