The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Success Story
Denna Crutchfield, 46: From 242 pounds to 145 pounds Pounds lost: 97 pounds Height: 5 feet Age: 46 years How long she’s kept it off: Started September 2012 and reached her current weight October 2014.
Personal life: “I’m a widowed mother of three teenagers, and we reside in Locust Grove, Ga.,” said Crutchfield. “Photography has been a passion of mine since I was a child. However, it wasn’t until my husband passed away that I realized the true value and importance of capturing family memories ... I’m also coaching others on how to be successful on their own fitness journey (www.getrightgettightblog .wordpress.com).”
Turning point: “Like so many others, I have started and stopped more times than I can count with losing weight. It wasn’t until after my husband passed, for reasons he had no control over, that I realized I was slowly killing myself one bite at a time and I had control over that,” she said. “I didn’t want my kids to be orphans, so I took control. Initially for my kids, then through time and circumstance, I realized I could only do it for me and be successful. Once I began to do it for me, it became a lifestyle. I discovered I enjoyed eating better and working out. I discovered I can do this and I discovered my passion: motivating and helping others reach their fitness goals ...”
Diet plan: Breakfast is oatmeal, egg whites and applesauce. Snacks include chicken, berries, nuts or a protein shake. Lunch is chicken or fish with veggies and rice or a sweet potato. Dinner is a salad with veggies and grilled chicken or fish.
Exercise routine: “I work out six to seven days a week,” she said. She works out with her trainer, Perry Wright of the Wright Xperience. She also does pole classes, suspension yoga, Cross-fit and stadium stairs.
Biggest challenge: “My biggest challenge is eating enough food and eating breakfast within 30 minutes of waking up — I still don’t like eating early in the morning ...”
How life has changed: “I never imagined anyone would seek fitness advice from me, but they do. That is amazing to me and it helps keep me motivated to continue on with my journey,” she said. “I’ve gone from a size 22 to 24 to a four to six.” She suggests: “Make life- style changes which are longterm — as opposed to starting a diet which is short-term and eventually comes to an end, as will any progress you have made.”