Donna Wood Lost 100 Pounds

Name: Donna Wood, 45

Location: Savannah, GA

Worst of times: 252 pounds

Best of times: 152 pounds

My turning point: When I started a new job in a building without an elevator and couldn’t even walk up the steps. At that moment, I knew something had to be done.

My slim-down techniques: Cutting out carbohydrates and sweets from my diet and drinking 80 ounces of water daily. You’ve got to learn to change your mindset.

Kept the weight off: Four months, so far.

My best motivator: Going to the gym three days a week and taking classes with my 16-year-old daughter. We take kickboxing, yoga and abdominal strengthening classes. Kickboxing is our favorite because of the high energy level. My daughter has been there every step of the way and is a huge source of encouragement.

My greatest temptations: Cookies, brownies, and ice cream. I only buy sweets if I’m having company. Otherwise, I keep them out of the house because I know I’ll eat them!

My favorite diet food: I eat grilled salmon and grouper a lot, so I try to spice them up a little differently each time. Some nights I’ll flavor the fish with a lemon and pepper sauce and other times, paprika. Jumbo salads with tomatoes, cucumbers, hard-boiled eggs, crabmeat, and vinaigrette dressing are also great.

My snacking tips: Once a month, I buy a one-serving chocolate chip ice cream sundae at Baskin Robbins instead of a gallon from the supermarket.

My exercise routine: Running six miles a day, four days a week, and taking stretching-exercise classes. I recently participated in a 10K race.

Stay-slim advice: If you splurge, don’t beat yourself up. But do make sure that you go back on your diet the very next meal. Too many people cheat and then wait until the following week to start dieting again.

The payoff: I’m happier, healthier, and feel 20 years younger!