Video: Lee County Woman On The Road To Fitness

[syndicaster id=’5523241′]

SALTILLO, Miss. (WCBI) — It’s a sure sign that New Year’s is right around the corner, the increasing number of people making resolutions to get in shape and eat better in 2015.

This evening, WCBI’s Allie Martin introduces us to a local woman who decided it was time to get fit, and a year later, she has never looked back.

Not too long ago, Tanya Barnes would have been anyplace but a gym. The 41 year old stay at home mom was in nursing school and gained a lot of weight.

But about a year ago, Tanya made a decision.

“I decided I needed to get healthy, stay healthy and feel better about myself,” Barnes said.

So she started to actually use her gym membership,” she said.

Tanya is now a regular at SNAP Fitness, sometimes working out multiple times in a day. She has lost more than 35 pounds and feels great.

“I feel good in my clothes now, not ashamed to show what I’ve done, staying slim, family thinks I’m an exercise aholic,” Barnes said.

Tanya is a believer in the “Buddy system” when working out, so her friend, Reggie Topp, can often be found pushing her through a tough circuit.

SNAP Fitness trainer Leah Justice has helped Tanya through her weight loss and workout journey and says it’s important to have friends who can encourage and motivate.

“We are all competitive, we do a lot of trash talking, in the long run it is a good time, you make friends and doing something good for your body,” Justice said.

And Tanya has some encouragement for others who want to take the first step on the road to a healthier life.

“Anybody can do it, don’t give up on yourself, you can feel good in your own body, exercise everyday,” Barnes said.

Of course, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any workout regimen.