Jennifer Curran

Stats

Home state: Maine

Age: 41

Total weight loss: 61 lbs.

What inspired you to lose weight?

I wanted to show my daughter (now age 2), by example, how to take care of her body.

What changes did you make in your eating and nutrition habits?

I start each day with a good breakfast and drink much more water (but no soda at all). I eat smaller meals throughout the day, incorporating more fruits and vegetables as snacks and in meals. Our family does not eat any fast food and we generally limit our intake of prepared sweets. If we eat any sweets, we make them at home from scratch, which minimizes the preservatives and artificial ingredients.

What role has rowing played in your weight loss?

It was hard to motivate myself initially after having a baby. I decided to start with realistic goals, adding distance and speed over time. I read the Concept2 Update article on favorite intervals (Fall 2008) from C2 Rowers, and it gave me some wonderful ideas! Without rowing, I know I would not have lost the weight I have… and I would not be in such better shape.

What is your current exercise routine?

I get up first thing in the morning and row 3000–5000 meters. I recently added a 30-minute lunchtime run to my routine. In the evenings, I row an additional 2000 meters right before dinner.

How has your life changed since your weight loss?

I have much more energy now and sleep better at night. I am able to keep up with our 2-year old much better now that I’ve lost weight. I feel better about myself and have more confidence. As a family, we eat healthier and spend more time considering what food choices we make. We understand that our daughter will be more likely to exercise and eat healthy foods if she sees her parents doing the same.