About Me

December 2008 - Before

My name is Jenn and I am a twenty something year old. My journey started in March of 2009 where after my first year at university I hopped on the scale to see a number I had never imagined I would ever see on a scale.I had come back from living away from home for my first year, eating what I wanted, being lazy and inactive, partying far too much, and so on. I gained much more then the freshman fifteen and to say the least I wasn't loving the person I had become.

Growing up I played every sport imaginable but had a huge love for soccer and volleyball. I danced as well, and did so for 11 years. I was somewhat overweight in high school. I was active, but had no clue on how to eat properly.

March of 2009, I decided I would participate in the Vancouver Sun Run (a 10 km road race) again. My family participates in this race almost every year. I laced up for my first run in a very long time, and decided I would run off campus to a small quiet community (to avoid people seeing me, as I was scared what they would think). I ran for 5 minutes and began to walk. I told myself I would run and walk and build my endurance. I knew it wouldn't come easy.

April of 2009, I ran the Vancouver Sun Run.(chip time:  1:04:01) That month I also walked into a Weight Watchers meeting room in Richmond, BC with my Mom. I was absolutely petrified but little did I know I was starting a journey that would totally transform who I was.

October 2009, I ran my first half marathon at the Royal Victoria Marathon with a chip time of 2:02:14. Pretty darn good considering the longest I had run prior to that race was maybe 14 km. Then I was hooked! 

October 2010, I ran my very first marathon. It was honestly one of the events in my life that I can recall so clearly. I was so emotional after finishing, I couldn't help but break down and cry. Happy tears! Promise! 
November of 2010, I became a service provider for Weight Watchers Canada. I am both a leader and a receptionist there and could not be happier. I absolutely love what I do.
 
Never did I think that this would be me. The girl feeling the find threw her hair, feeling the soreness in her body from running for hours on end, and hearing the cheers of random strangers along a finish line. 

 

What are you majoring in at University?

Women Studies.

What are your career goals?

Ultimately, I want to get into the fitness industry. In the next few years I plan to be a certified nutritionist, personal trainer and group trainer. 

Do you plan on going back to school after you graduate?

Possibly. I want to get myself into the fitness industry first, then maybe we will see where the wind takes me. 

Natural blonde or brunette? 

Ha. So I used to dye my hair brown, almost black when I was in high school and first year university. I didn't like my natural colour. I am naturally a darker blonde.

How long did it take to lose the weight?

Over a year and a half. I had a bit of a speed bump part way through 2009 but ended up getting over it. I think a slower weight loss is key, since you end up losing poor behaviors and picking up healthier ones that stick with you.

Where do you find your motivation for activity?

Two words. Runner's High. Yes, it is true. It does exist! The endorphin rush after any activity makes up for any pain or discomfort I feel during the activity. Also, if this weight loss and marathon training has taught me anything I have learned you need to work for the things you want in life and you need to make time for those things you want.

If you have any further questions, feel free to contact me!