In early 2019, I was feeling heavy, sluggish, and the lab work from my annual physical exam indicated that I was on a fast track for needing cholesterol meds. My resting pulse rate was in the 90-100 range and my blood pressure was to a point of almost needing meds to bring it down.

I decided that it was in my power to address these things myself and committed to doing just that.

I researched cardio-based exercise programs for people with old lower back injuries and osteoporosis and became excited about power walking. At the same time, I joined WW online, and downloaded the point tracking app.

Within six months, I had lost 40 lbs, had addressed all of my health issues, was power walking faithfully at least 6 days per week, and was feeling like a million bucks.

I maintained the weight loss (without further dieting) and the consistent power walking for over two years.

Then, I got lazy.

My power-walking over the past four months has been sporadic. My eating habits have gone from healthy to not so healthy, and the pounds have started creeping back. As of today, I’ve gained back 19 of the 40 lbs and I’m truly feeling it on my walks. 19 lbs is a lot on my small frame.

I saw a promotion for WW in my Instagram feed yesterday and decided that was a definite sign, because it’s the first time I’ve noticed that ad. I rejoined this morning and will resume tracking my food until I return to a comfortable and healthier weight.

My initial weight loss goal in 2019 was 25 lbs, but I carried on to lose 15 more and stopped once I felt comfortable.

I will stop this creep before it becomes a climb because I never want to get back to where I was. I remember all too well how horrible I felt, so I will not go back there.

“A huge part of losing weight is believing you have the power to do it.”

Debasish Mridha