May 2010
Shantel Robinson is a true inspiration. She’s 25 years old and works out at Lucille Roberts in Irvington, NJ. In the past year, she’s lost 61 lb. — and counting! Read on for the full story of her transformation.
LR: How long have you been a member of Lucille Roberts?
SR: I signed up in December 2008, but I was inconsistent. I have been consistently going since June 2010.
LR: What made you decide to start working out at Lucille Roberts?
SR: I wanted to go to a gym that was close to my job and my home. I also wanted to go to a gym that was all-female; I was not comfortable with the thought of working out with men. Plus, the price was affordable
LR: Did you work with a personal trainer?
SR: Yes! I worked with Dion when I first started going to Lucille Roberts, and I am currently taking his group training courses.
LR: Which classes are your favorites?
SR: Tummy Tuck and Butt Lift, Triple Fat Burner, and Upper Cuts and Abs. All the instructors have good music and energy—especially Larry, Tamika, Dion, and Betty!
LR: Describe your typical weekly workout routine.
SR: I try to work out at least 5 days per week. I am usually on the treadmill for 30 minutes. I lift weights for 15-30 minutes (depending on how much energy I have). Each day, I try to switch up my routine; one day I may focus on cardio, the next day, weights; then other days, I want to work on both. If I have enough energy, I will take a class. On Sundays, I go on the treadmill for about 15 minutes and then participate in the group training class with Dion.
April 2011
LR: How have you changed your diet to help you lose weight?
SR: I included more water, fruit, and vegetables in my diet. I also believe in eating a big breakfast and lunch. As far as cutting out items, I don’t eat as much of fried foods, potato chips, juice, cookies, candy, white sugar, white bread, white pasta, and white rice. If I have it, it’s no more than 2 times per month. I also decreased my intake of alcoholic drinks by trying to have it only for special occasions. I know I will still want these foods (especially around that time of the month!), but I know if I eat these foods, I will have to work out even harder. I also take multivitamins in the morning after breakfast.
LR: What’s the hardest part of losing weight? How do you stay motivated to keep going?
SR: The hardest part is to actually get going after a hard day of work because I get tired. Music motivates me: I just blast my music in my car and listen to more music on my iPhone when I enter the gym. I am also motivated when I look at an older picture of me before I even went to the gym.
LR: How do you feel now compared with how you felt when you first started working out?
SR: Before I started working out, I used to get out of breath so easily, even from walking. Now, I have so much energy, and I get better sleep at night. I notice I can wear high heels all night!
LR: What words of encouragement or advice would you offer to other Lucille Roberts ladies who are trying to get in shape?
SR: Start slow! I can’t emphasize this enough; if you have never worked out before, go for only a maximum of 30 minutes for about 2 weeks and then increase your time by 15 min. If you try to work out too hard at first, you will get tired, hurt yourself, and not want to come back. That was what happened to me, which was the reason why I was not consistent when I first joined Lucille Roberts. Utilize your trainers and pay attention to the instructors in the class, as well. Visualize the new you in that new dress or bikini. When you think positively, you will be encouraged to continue with your goals. And, finally, being fit is a new lifestyle; your life actually changes—new habits, new clothing, new energy. Be patient and enjoy your journey!
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About Shantel:
I work with teenagers as a care manager for a non-profit agency. When I am not working, I love to spend time with my family and friends, read, watch sports (basketball, football, baseball, soccer, boxing), listen to music, and just have a good time!
Do you have a question for Shantel? You can ask her by leaving a comment, below.
