Featured Fitale – Joy Ufomadu

Please introduce yourself to our readers (i.e. your name, occupation, hobbies, etc.).

My name is Joy. I am 26 and I am an adventure-seeker. I am also a writer, creative, and teacher.

What sparked your weight-loss transformation journey?

I had been wanting to lose weight for years. My inability to fit my old clothes and suggestions from my parents inspired me temporarily, but I did not actually commit to my journey until I was unable to ride a roller coaster with my nephew (it was his first time) and I was told that I weighed too much to go skydiving.

I love adventures and I realized that I was not going to be able to fully tap into my adventurous side until I lost the weight.

What was your beginning and current weight or measurements?

My beginning weight was 303.4 and I currently weigh 223.

How long did it take for your weight-loss transformation from beginning to end?

It took about a year; however, I am still adding goals to my journey.

Which physical activities did you participate in during your journey?

I did a lot of HIIT using videos on the internet. I also did a lot of cardio on the elliptical machine and treadmill.

How did your eating habits change?

I had to start controlling my portion. I also had to stop eating every time that I got stressed or sad.   In addition, I began to be aware of the amount of calories and carbohydrates that were in the foods that I was eating.

What do you typically eat for breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner?

For breakfast, I typically have meat (sausage or bacon) or vegan meat and oatmeal. If I don’t have that, then I typically go for a smoothie.

For lunch, I usually have chicken and two veggies.

For dinner, I usually have a burrito bowl or a meat and veggies.

For snacks, I have low calorie ice cream, fruit, peanut butter, sometimes chips, and even sometimes a slice of cake. I try to remind myself to have everything in moderation.

What is your favorite fitness activity?

I don’t get to do them often, but I love outdoor activities. I like walking trails and swimming.

What do you do now to maintain your physique?

I work out 5-7 times per week. I am just starting strength training and I really like how it’s changing my physique.

How did you develop and sustain the willpower to avoid the bad stuff (i.e. junk food, bad drinks, lack of activity, etc.)?

I journal and I also reflect on my “reasons why”. I tap into my spirituality also. I learned that I was using food to cope with my feelings and I developed other coping skills.

In addition, I have junk food, drinks, and days where I don’t exercise. I just make sure that I am strategic.

What advice do you have for someone looking to get started with their fitness journey but not sure where to begin?

I would tell them to start acquiring resources. Social media has been very helpful for me. I’ve found workouts, supportive people, dietary advice etc. on social media.

I would also advise them to look for a fitness coach if they need extra support. I actually started my journey with a fitness coach.

What do you think is the biggest misconception about this journey?

I think a huge one is that you can lack intentionality. Even if you’re not a planner, you will have to be strategic about making changes.

Do you have any fitness inspirations?  Who are they?

There are so many! My momma is definitely one (Shout out to Ms. Rita)! Also @hazeleyed_k @200poundsgone @anowaadjah @fatgirlfedup on Instagram

How can readers learn more about your transformation and journey online (i.e. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.)?

I am on Instagram @joys_weigh