Bellalicious

Hi, my name is Deon Duplessis, Certified Personal Trainer at Bella Women's Fitness. Six years ago I weighed 245lbs. My eating habits were horrible. My health was declining and I lacked confidence. I can remember it as if it were yesterday. I needed help but was too intimidated to ask.

One day, while at the mal trying on clothes when I realized the denial I was in. Reality shook me to pieces when even size 10 wouldn't fit at all. I went to the next size, and the next. I had justified, rationalized and minimized my eating patterns and lack of exercise. I sat in the dressing room, knowing with every fiber of my being that I had to do something different. Who was this person looking at me in the mirror? Having to leave with a size 20-22 dress, I made a vow to myself that I was worth whatever it took for me to get control of my life once and for all.

Six years later, I have not looked back and have no intentions to do so. I went from a size 20-22 to a size 5 in 14-15 months with exercise and nutrition.

I don't believe in diets. I am firm believer in lifestyle changes. I joined a gym and made the commitment to not only join, but to follow through with whatever was suggested from professionals who had lived through similar circumstances. I hired a personal trainer and it was by far the best investment I have ever made. I lost a 115lbs. My energy increased. I gained great muscle tone and I felt great.

After dropping to a size 5, I wanted to challenge myself. I continued to train for the Texas Shredder Classic in 2006 Figure Competition, I placed 4th and was so proud of myself and the hard work that I put in, considering where I had come from. I must say I am not the same person I was six years ago. Today I am more conscious of what I put in my body, and when I look in the mirror, I like who's looking back at me.