Weight-Loss Role Models: Fat to Fit 2011 Winners

Second Place: Susan Kopczyk, 69, Yorktown, Va.

A Fat to Fit member for almost a year, Susan started her weight loss and fitness program to increase strength and balance and maintain lung function (she has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). "I need the accountability I find at Fat to Fit because if I don't have someone to report to, it's so easy to fall back into the dieting mentality," she says.

Susan's highest weight was 356 pounds. Today, she weighs in at 146 pounds, and she reported an eight-pound weight loss during the Challenge. Susan has eased into a regular exercise routine and attends water aerobics and water zumba classes at her local YWCA. On at least three days a week, she does strength training and cardio. "I never thought I'd enjoy exercise so much. I wasted more than 60 years avoiding something I really enjoy! It took me about a year to get to this point, little by little. This past May I walked my first 5K and next year I plan to do a half marathon. As a side benefit, my blood pressure is lower, and I've made a lot of new friends."

She offers the following advice to others: "No one is ever too old to start making lifestyle changes that will help with weight loss or maintenance."

Next: Fat to Fit's first place winner. >>