Firefighter burns fat, saves his own life

Couple hot flames with bulky suits and 60-pound oxygen tanks, and fighting fires can wipe out even the healthiest people. That's why firefighters need to be in tip-top physical shape to do their job safely and well.

But for volunteer firefighter Ryan Hargis of Kingston, Tenn., his physical shape was holding him back. At 253 pounds, Ryan had borderline high blood pressure and cholesterol. He couldn't keep up with his fellow East Roane County firefighters or his seven- and nine-year-old boys like he used to.

In fact, Ryan's doctor told him to get his blood pressure down in three months, or face medication. That was the final straw for Ryan.

You can hear about this moment of truth and more from an interview Janelle and I recently conducted with Ryan. We talked about being a firefighter, and how losing weight has affected his life. Warning: It's a scorcher!



Can't take the heat? Here's the short version of Ryan's journey:

After mulling over his diagnosis, Ryan remembered seeing TV commercials for L A Weight Loss, and thought the plan looked like something he could easily follow. So he took a short trip to the L A Weight Loss center in Knoxville, Tenn., on April 15, 2006 -- the first step toward dousing his high blood pressure and cholesterol.

Since that date, Ryan has lost 65 pounds and is now down to 188 pounds!! He credits his success to how little he had to change his life. The L A Weight Loss nutritionists taught Ryan how he could still eat his favorite foods, but in moderation. Ryan also learned how to overcome his carb cravings with healthier options such as fruits.

Ryan's blood pressure is now normal, and he has a lot more energy to fight fires and play with his kids.

When Ryan reached his initial goal weight of 200 pounds, he started to incorporate exercise into his healthy lifestyle to keep his muscles strong for just about any physical challenge.

In fact, it was Ryan's newfound energy and strength that enabled him to make a big difference for his firefighting squad and his county. Toward the end of last year, his team was called to put out a large house fire. Thanks to a fit and trim body, Ryan was able to support his team every step of the way without getting winded. The squad saved the house!

In recognition of his efforts, Ryan won the Firefighter of the Year Award for East Roane County. Way to go, Ryan and team!

Here's Ryan before, at 253 pounds:



And here's Ryan after, at 188 pounds. Looking hot, Ryan!!



FAST FACTS

Name: Ryan Hargis
Hometown: Kingston, Tenn.
Age: 36
Height: 5'11"

Starting weight: 253 pounds
Goal weight: 190 pounds
Current weight: 188 pounds
Program start date: April 15, 2006

Biggest motivator: Getting support and love from his wife.

Biggest obstacle: Finding a weight loss plan that fit into his hectic schedule.

Old eating philosophy: Burning through three big meals a day.

New eating philosophy: Eating several small meals throughout the day, and going for healthier options such as fruits and L A Lite bars.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling better physically and emotionally. Now when he looks in the mirror, he doesn't see the same big person staring back.

Best weight loss secret learned: Everyone has periods when they get discouraged. The winners are the ones who keep at it. Keep going, and the results will come!