From “Mom Jeans” to Marathons
Gina Montano lost 41 lbs. in six months with 21 Day Fix, 21 Day Fix EXTREME, and CIZE. She entered her results into the Beachbody Challenge, and won the $500 Daily Prize for January 19th!
Gina is an independent Beachbody Coach.
Tell us about your life before you started the program. How did you feel about yourself and your body?
I am a mom of three who was resigned to being in “mom jeans” forever. I felt defeated by my “new but not improved” body. I gained upwards of 60 pounds with each pregnancy, and was always left 10 pounds heavier than the last pregnancy after attempting to shed the baby weight.
What inspired you to change your life and begin your transformation journey?
My husband and I started seeing posts by an old friend, Misty, about her fitness journey as a Beachbody Coach. Her story was very similar to my own (three kids, pregnancy weight to lose), and her energy was downright contagious. We decided to take the plunge and try the 21 Day Fix in Misty’s Challenge Group, and have never looked back!
What is the greatest challenge you faced before beginning the program? How did the program and Beachbody help you overcome that challenge?
I could run, and run, and run, and the pounds would never come off. I even ran a marathon (and five half marathons!), and the scale never budged. My greatest challenge was the feeling of hopelessness that accompanied my many failed attempts to get my pre-kids body back. Beachbody, and specifically the 21 Day Fix, gave me the tools I needed to address my weight gain and beat it head on. The end results are a healthier me and a healthier family. I feel a combination of gratitude and relief as I have reclaimed my old self — both to Beachbody and to my Coach. And now, as a Coach myself, I have the added feeling of accomplishment by helping others realize their fitness goals. The entire Beachbody experience has been nourishment for my mind, body, and soul. This last round using CIZE posed an interesting challenge — I am not a dancer, so there were times when I wanted to quit. I kept thinking, “I’m a weight gal, not a fly girl!” But with every workout, I actually learned to dance and had fun!
What in particular did you like about the program you chose?
This was my sixth round with Beachbody, but first with CIZE. I liked the feeling of accomplishment when I mastered the moves, and the fact that it was as much of a mind workout as a physical workout.
Describe the results you achieved with your Beachbody program. Which achievements are you proud of?
I wasn’t sure what to expect this round since I had already lost over 40 pounds with the 21 Day Fix and 21 Day Fix EXTREME. I was shocked when I pulled out the measuring tape to see that I had lost an additional 6.25 inches just from dancing! My weight remained stable this round, but all told I have lost 41 pounds and 57.5 inches in six months, which is just downright amazing. I am back to my wedding weight, and could not be prouder of my new “old” body.
How has your life changed since completing your Beachbody program?
First and foremost, I am now a Beachbody Coach, which has allowed me personal and professional growth. It also has helped me stay the course on my own fitness journey. Health-wise, I feel fantastic. I have more energy, clearer skin, and renewed self confidence — all of which translates to a much improved, positive outlook on life.
How did participating in a Challenge Group help you reach your goals? How did your group support you and keep you accountable?
I love Challenge Groups! They keep me motivated, inspire meals, and create a camaraderie I have never experienced in a fitness program. I have made great friends, found a new career in coaching, and of course continued to see results round after round. The Beachbody experience just would not be the same for me without a Group!
How did your Team Beachbody Coach support you on your journey?
My Coach has motivated, inspired, and supported me both in my fitness goals and professional goals. She truly is a shining star!
How did a Beachbody supplement, nutritional product, or program (such as Shakeology or Beachbody Ultimate Reset) support your transformation? What are the greatest benefits you gained? Did you see benefits to your energy, sleep, mood/mental clarity, or digestion/regularity?
Shakeology has been a wonderful treat on the 21 Day Fix Eating Plan. I have seen clearer skin, reduced inflammation, more energy, no “sick days,” and digestive improvement.+
You can change your life, too. Take the Beachbody Challenge for the tools you need to Decide, Commit, and Succeed! Complete any Beachbody program, and enter your results for a free gift and a chance to win cash and prizes.
*Results vary depending on starting point, goals, and effort.
+These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Beachbody products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.