Phys ed teacher perfects what she preaches

Physical education teachers are expected to be experts in fitness and health. But Kelly Ludwig found that teaching phys ed in Appleton, Wisc., wasn't enough to keep her active or healthy.

Kelly never payed much attention to her weight. She ate whatever was convenient -- usually fast and fried foods. And she didn't think about portion control. Cleaning her plate was never a problem.

At 270 pounds, Kelly had a hard time finding clothes she liked and that fit. Her self-esteem was low. Despite being a physical education teacher, she lacked energy to be active herself.

When Kelly turned 32, she remembered that was the age her father had been when he suffered a massive heart attack due to his weight. Kelly realized she was following the same road.

So in August 2005, Kelly joined the Appleton East L A Weight Loss center. Her personal weight loss counselors taught her how to incorporate important foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins into her diet. Kelly also learned the key to her new, healthy diet -- portion control -- and completely cut out fast food.

Kelly received constant support and accountability from her counselors. To keep herself on track, she visited the center three times a week.

Her dedication payed off. Since joining L A Weight Loss, Kelly has lost 105 pounds! She now weighs 165 pounds, and is only 15 pounds away from her weight loss goal of 150. Great job, Kelly!

Life has gotten easier for Kelly since she dropped the weight. Her relationships have improved, she's more confident and outgoing, and her activity level has greatly increased.

Kelly's doing things now that she never could have done before, such as running 5ks and triathlons. And when she isn't running, biking, or swimming, Kelly's walking, skating, or lifting weights. In fact, she has so much energy she can't sit still these days.

Best of all, she feels good about herself. It's great to walk into any clothing store and find something she likes and that fits her well. Shopping is fun!

Kelly feels like her entire life has changed. She is much happier and healthier. And as her school's new poster girl for health and fitness, she definitely fits the role of a phys ed teacher. Way to go, Kelly!

Here's Kelly at 270 pounds before she began her weight loss program:



And here she is today, the picture of physical fitness at 165 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Kelly Ludwig
Hometown: Appleton, Wisc.
Age: 32
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 270 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 165 pounds
Program start date: August 2005

Favorite food: Fruit.

Biggest temptation: Sweets.

Biggest motivator: Seeing her clothing sizes shrink.

Biggest obstacle: Trying to stay on track and not giving in to temptations.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever was most convenient.

New eating philosophy: Maintaining proper portion control.

Best thing about losing weight: Gaining energy.

Best weight loss secret learned: Stick with the correct portions.