Treasure D. Ledgister

Growing up as the youngest and only girl with two older brothers set me on a path of a “can do” attitude. From a young age, I was determined to prove to others that I could do anything I set my mind to. I grew up as a confident, happy person and my circle of friends and family never made me feel as if I didn’t fit in or wasn’t like everyone else. I lived an amazing life and I thought I was satisfied in all aspects of it, except for the fact that I could not manage my weight.

I really didn’t know how out of control my weight truly was until my yearly physical exam in December 2011. I found myself at my top weight of 330lbs, 5’ 7”and wearing a size 28-30W. When I stepped on the scale, I knew things were totally out of control. That Christmas, after a discussion with a close friend about changing some things in my life, I made a decision to start living a healthier lifestyle by making better food choices. In March 2012 I started to add fitness to my routine and joined a Zumba Studio. I fell in love with it! From December to July I lost 18lbs; but felt something was missing. I felt like I needed more education on nutrition and fitness because I wasn’t achieving the results I wanted fast enough.

I have always been a fan of The Biggest Loser show and would watch ordinary people achieve extraordinary things; transforming not only their bodies but also their minds with the help of trainers and a clean meal plan. After noticing commercials about The Biggest Loser Resort, I decided to research to see if it was a place where I could succeed.

I began my 3-week journey at BLR Malibu on July 15, 2012 at 311lbs. I was nervous, excited and eager to learn as much as possible during my stay. First impressions go a long way and BLR Malibu certainly made a good one on me. From the moment I arrived, I was not disappointed. The Resort truly exceeded my expectations! The staff was exceptional. The trainers at the Resort were fantastic and offered encouragement every step of the way. Chef Reyes, his culinary team, housekeeping, the front desk, hike guides, spa professionals; pretty much the entire staff were incredibly friendly and encouraging. I noticed immediately that BLR was a safe environment and the other guests there were such an inspiration. We may have all had different starting points in our journey, but we were all there for a common reason – to learn how to live a healthier lifestyle.

I’ll be honest, the whole experience wasn't easy, but the people (guests, trainers, and staff) made every day a memorable experience. The positive energy and compassion from everyone was nothing like anything I’ve ever experienced before. Not one day would pass when I didn’t learn something new about fitness, nutrition or myself. I found myself even pushing harder than I've ever pushed before, physically and emotionally. I found strength at BLR Malibu that I didn’t know I had. The life coaching sessions were incredible and the nutrition lectures were invaluable. I learned a lot about nutrition and emotional eating. It was during these sessions at the BLR that I had my epiphany about myself. I had never been a victim of an abusive relationship or an unhappy life causing me to be obese. I realized that I WAS AN ABUSER! I had an abusive relationship with food and I was able to identify triggers for why and how I abused food. I learned about portion size based on body type, and quality of food; all of which helps me properly fuel my body.

Attending BLR Malibu was by far the best decision of my life and the best investment in myself I could ever have made. My 3 weeks were AMAZING and I left the BLR 13lbs lighter and armed with a plan for the next chapter in my life.

I adopted a personal mantra of “KEEP ON MOVING” and I set solid goals for myself upon my return home. I now live an active lifestyle and continue to push my limits by staying focused on cardio and core and strength training. I exercise five to six times a week by scheduling my workouts into my professional and personal life. I’ve joined my local gym, worked with a personal trainer, and stayed true to the exercises that keep me motivated. I’m grateful for my BLR cookbook which I use regularly as I plan my meals for the week. I’m proud to say, since my return home, I have lost a total of 70lbs (33+ total inches lost from my chest, waist and hips)! I still have a long road ahead but have come to realize that it’s all about the journey and the changes I’ve made in my life, not the number on the scale. The support from BLR is constant in my life. I’m fortunate to stay in touch with the trainers, hike guides and guests through social media, which helps me to stay focused, motivated, and inspired. Attending The Biggest Loser Resort was the most significant life change I have ever experienced. I often tell people that my next vacation destination will be at BLR again. It will be the reminder of why living a healthy lifestyle is so important. I can’t wait to go back!

Treasure D. Ledgister; Kitchener 
Ontario, Canada