The Nest

Nestie DevonStiles on losing weight for the wedding and keeping it off!

Posted Wednesday, May 13, 2009 12:14 PM

Nest Anni: So what’s your overall goal? Weight loss? Getting toned? Running a race?

DevonStiles: My overall goal is to run a marathon. I feel like if I can get my body in that sort of physical shape, I can be truly proud of myself. I never saw myself as a runner, and now that I can run several miles at a time without stopping, I feel like I can do anything.

Nest Anni: What was the breaking point that provoked you to make changes?

DevonStiles: I knew I had to change when the scale kept creeping up. At 5'3", I was nearing 150 lb. My wedding was rapidly approaching, and I knew I wanted to be a fit and toned bride. I started running a little more and did C25K to get myself in better shape. I also started running races. I've lost 15 lb. since then! I hope to lose another 5 to 10 lb.

Nest Anni: What kind of changes have you made so far?

DevonStiles: I've completely changed the way I eat. I used to eat out for most of my meals; now I eat at home. I make sure I eat fruits and vegetables throughout the day. I also monitor how much processed foods I'm eating. I also track all of my food intake on my iPhone with the LoseIt! application. It has made a huge difference for me.

Nest Anni: What’s your favorite healthy snack?

DevonStiles: Hummus and carrots are a big favorite with my husband and me. Our fridge is always stocked with healthy snack options.

Nest Anni: What’s your biggest obstacle?

DevonStiles: My biggest obstacle is resisting sweets. I have a major sweet tooth, and once I had one treat, it's hard to stop. I've discovered that avoiding them helps me crave them less.

Nest Anni: Do you have any secrets to your motivation?

DevonStiles: The Nest Health & Fitness board helps keep me motivated. Whenever I see someone post about a new PR, it helps me strive to keep it up.

Nest Anni: What HASN’T worked for you in the past?

DevonStiles: Avoiding carbs does NOT work for me. I get so cranky without carbs. I'd rather cut off my arm to lose 10 lb. than not eat carbs.

Nest Anni: I could not agree more! Any advice for others trying to get on track?

DevonStiles: Find something you like: running, soccer, Zumba, cycling. Sign up for races. Get a workout buddy.

Thanks Devon!  Keep up the awesome work!