With a herniated disc, a cracked elbow, and bad knees - none of them from athletics - I was an unlikely participant in the Body-for-LIFE Challenge. But I was almost 49 years old and was disgusted with my body. At 5 feet 10 inches and 176 pounds, I couldn't blame my size on being big-boned. I had elevated shopping for clothes that hid my rear end and thighs to an art form. I was also sleeping my life away because I was exhausted every minute of every day, working relentless hours managing two small businesses and doing volunteer work at my church.

From the first week of the Challenge, I experienced more energy. By week 5, I couldn't get out of bed fast enough to see the changes in my body, which seemed to be occurring almost daily.

Twelve weeks later, I had lost 33 pounds and 7 inches from my waist. I also made some changes in my personal life, such as slashing 50-hour workweeks to spend more time with my husband.

I plan on being a 70-year-old hard-body!