GET INSPIRED!

Everyone, meet Taryn.

Taryn is one of the most beautiful girls I know, both on the inside, and out.  She started her weight loss journey a year ago and has made incredible changes to her lifestyle.  I asked her a few questions on how she's changed her every day routine and she gave some inspiring advice.  

 

1). What made you want to change your lifestyle? Did you have some kind of epiphany, or did you just want to lose 5 lbs at first?

When I first started this journey I honestly had no idea where it would take me. All I knew was that I needed a change... I wanted to feel better in my own skin and I knew that my current lifestyle was never going to get me where I wanted and hoped I would one day be. I had no goal weight loss in mind, I just wanted to be a healthier and happier version of myself.

2). How has your eating habits/routine changed?

The way I eat now is completely different than the way I used to eat, lets say a year ago. I would literally eat whatever I want. And when I say whatever, I literally mean WHATEVER I wanted. I had no idea that what I was doing was wrong, and I didn't know any better. I am now a lot more conscious of what I am putting into my body. A lot more protein, fruits, and vegetables and a lot less sugar and carbs. I had always heard that saying "you are what you eat", and now I completely agree. 

3). Do you still let yourself cheat sometimes? What's your favorite cheat food?

 

Honestly, cheating is what keeps me going. Every Saturday I allow myself a cheat. I can eat whatever I want, and trust me I do. If I didn't have my cheat days I wouldn't have anything to look forward to. When I am struggling on Wednesday, I just think "only a couple more days until Saturday, I CAN DO THIS!" My all time favorite cheat food are pancakes...breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, so I can't stop myself when it comes to them!

4). Have you completely eliminated alcohol? If you do drink, what's the "healthiest" drink to have?

As far as alcohol, I have never really been a big fan of the taste of it, so that in itself has kind of kept me away from it. BUT, when I do, I usually stick to vodka with a sugar free Red Bull, thats my favorite and really low in calories! 

5). Describe your average workout routine.

 

My average workout routine consists of at least 20-30 minutes of cardio. My favorite form of cardio is the stair master, it really helps build that booty! Other than that, it depends on the day of the week. Depending on the day, I have a certain muscle group that I work on; legs, triceps, biceps, shoulders, back, abs. Weight training has been a huge part of my workout success. I have learned a lot, and honestly that comes with being in the gym so often. I have learned a lot from watching other people, or just asking. You can never ask enough questions when it comes to working out, the more you know, the more you will be able to change your body. So don't be afraid to ask! 

6). What kind of music pumps you up for your workouts? Any good/new workout songs?

Honestly, the only music I ever listen to when I'm working out is R&B. It's my favorite type of music, so it really keeps me going in the gym! That's my advice when it comes to music, listen to something that makes you feel good. That way you can associate your love for music with your growing love for working out and being at the gym.

7). How often are you working out? Do you give yourself rest days?

I give myself 1-2 rest days a week. It honestly just depends on what is happening that week. But it always falls on either Saturday or Sunday. Like my cheat day, it gives me something to look forward to! And plus, your body needs a good rest. If 5-6 days is too much for you, 3-4 will work as well! Anything is better than nothing.

8). Any other advice for new "gym-aholics" or tips on how to stay consistent?

My biggest advice that I ever give someone when it comes to maintaining this lifestyle is to not take it too serious! Just because you are making time for the gym or giving up your favorite foods doesn't mean that it's all you should consume your life with. Having a cheat day and a couple days off from the gym will allow you something to look forward to, and having that will make you never want to stop. It's like I can achieve the body I've always wanted and still eat my pancakes! Never give up, and realize that this isn't a diet or a temporary thing...it's a LIFESTYLE, and you have forever to perfect it. Don't get discouraged, because all good things take time! 

For more progress pictures, keep up with this amazing girl on Instagram: tarynnicole

Stay optimistic! ;-) 

-C