Tim's Story: Small Changes Inspire Big Success

After a doctor's appointment nearly two years ago, Tim Fontaine was told he had high blood pressure, was borderline diabetic and needed to lose weight. Unsure of what to do, the Longview, Texas native decided to start by making small changes.

Tim began cutting out unhealthy snacks and slowly started incorporating fitness into his life. After receiving a BowFlex TreadClimber^® as a Father's Day gift, Tim started using the machine a few times a week and eventually added in strength training. Since then, Tim has lost more than 100 pounds.

Tim shared his inspirational story about adopting a healthy lifestyle with us:

What inspired and continues to motivate you to change?

"To be frank, I just got tired of being a 'fat guy.' After going to the doctor, the prospect of having to be on meds for the rest of my life motivated me to take control of my health. The results I get from my hard work continue to motivate me. You just can't argue with smaller pants sizes and being taken off medications."

What are the biggest changes you've seen in your life?

"I'm wowed by the number of changes I've seen — from my weight and clothes sizes to my much improved checkups with my doctor."

Besides the changes you described, what did you gain?

"I gained self-respect and really felt like I was honoring myself. When you do something like this and make big changes, it really opens up internal possibilities that you might not have previously considered. It's a real 'I can do this' kind of moment."

What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out?

"Sometimes, the hardest thing do to when you have a goal to drop weight is to not get lost in the enormity of where you want to be, especially if the number is big. It can feel daunting and maybe even unattainable at first. You need to keep it in mind to start small. Make small eating changes. Start working out — even if all you can do is a few minutes at first. Just start."

What does fitness mean to you?

"It means looking good, in the shape you want to be in, and one that's healthy for you. It means not having to be shackled to medications."

Have you ever made small changes that resulted in a big change? Share your story with us in the comments below.

See more of Tim's story in this video: