This week we're excited to feature Shonda! A fit-mom of two who once weighed over 200 pounds! She gives us insight on how she balances work, fitness, the day-to-day grind, and of course living and eating healthy! Here's why Shonda is our Everyday ICON of the week...
What do you do?
I’m a 43 year old fit-mom of two. Social media fitness, food and lifestyle blogger.
What made you want to do what you are doing? What’s your story?
I know how hard it is to commit to a healthy lifestyle and not give up when it gets hard. I started working out when I hit 200 pounds after I had Zachary. I didn’t think in terms of a goal or what I wanted. I simply wanted to get the baby weight off. I bought a couple of books and worked out at the local YMCA. I did not train with anyone and I certainly didn’t understand the nutrition piece.
I simply worked out. I think a lot of people give up or “fail” at losing weight because they try to do it all in the beginning. Eat chicken and broccoli only after years of eating horrible is a tough switch. Working out 2 hours a day after years of nothing is almost impossible. I’m not saying it’s not doable I’m simply saying that’s not what I did. I didn’t know better than how I did it. 9 years later I hired a coach that wrote my meal plans. That’s when it saw the most change.
When I turned 40, I was about 10 pounds heavier than I am now. No excuses. I had gotten complacent. I wasn’t happy and mentioned to a trainer at the gym I wanted to get back to where I was 5 years ago. They laughed and said “at 40 be happy with where you are”… hmmm, the hell with that I thought. I tend to be motivated by what “the world” thinks can’t be done. My point is it took 7 or 8 months to finally reach the bodyfat I was at 35. I’m still not completely satisfied and I’m not done! The goal? I don't know that I have one other than to rock the too short denim shorts that I probably shouldn’t be wearing at 40 any way!
Why Icon Meals? What makes us different?
With multiple protein, carb and veggie selections my custom meal plan is easily ordered. Icon Meals provide fresh options with a healthy variety to choose from.
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
We aren’t perfect nor do we have to be to see results. (I don’t know that was the advice given to me but it’s the advice I do share) Also, you don’t need to pay for a trainer. If you can afford one that’s a bonus. There are so many free resources online. Don’t wait for the perfect situation or the perfect time. And I would advise don’t try to do everything at once. Baby steps and add to your routine as you are ready. You can see the change you are seeking but you have to believe that. And you have to commit to your goals.
You are a social media “influencer” what are you doing to be “influential” in today’s society?
I hope that I show if I can lose weight and stay healthy anyone can.
Who is your biggest inspiration? Why?
My mom. She has worked hard her entire life, overcome great obstacles, and has never given up. She taught me the same.
How do you balance work and life demands?
I try to stick to my schedule. I plan my workouts and regardless how busy work gets I stick with my plan. Family is always a priority so that never gets push to the side. Workouts without a plan would.
What do you want your legacy to be? How do you want to be remembered?
That I loved my children more than life. That I shared with as many as I could that we have an amazing God and that I was a good mom.
What is your current focus? Any plans for the future?
My world life is really busy right now and I’d like to get my blog updated and used more. That will be a difficult task if I don’t really get focused on it.
What are your favorite Icon Meals? Or favorite thing about Icon Meals?
I love the sweet potatoes!! Those and asparagus with cod! Delicious!! Icon Meals is a great product with great people on their team. I’m proud to eat their meals and share them with my followers.
Shonda has shared her transformation from overweight to super-fit mom on social media, and has amassed 2.5 million Instagram followers. She shares videos of her workouts, some of her favorite recipes, and photos of her progress on her page.
Stay connected with Shonda on IG at @shonda1020 and her website shondafit.com
Want to be featured as an "Everyday ICON?" Submit your stories to info@iconmeals.com or send us a DM on IG or Facebook!