Shandra’s 110-Pound Weight Loss Journey: WW, Keto and Running

Shandra’s 110-Pound Weight Loss Transformation Journey

When Shandra Redwine stepped on the scale at age 29 and saw the number 260, it was the wake-up call she needed. Over the next several years, Shandra embarked on a journey of personal transformation, ultimately losing 110 pounds—and keeping it off. This is the story of how Shandra reclaimed her health by combining multiple diet strategies, developing a love for running, and staying committed to progress no matter the obstacles.

Facing a Turning Point

Shandra’s weight had crept up gradually. After gaining over 100 pounds in less than five years, she realized that her health would not support the family life she wanted. The moment she saw 260 pounds on the scale marked a major turning point. “I knew that if I continued living the way I was, there was no way I could start a family,” she recalled.

First Steps with WW (Weight Watchers)

Determined to make a change, Shandra began her journey by joining WW (formerly Weight Watchers). WW’s structured points system and focus on nutrition empowered her to make healthier food choices and understand portion control. Within months, she lost about 60 pounds before becoming pregnant with her first son.

• WW taught her the value of balanced nutrition over restriction.
• Accountability through the WW system helped her stick to changes and notice positive shifts in energy and mood.

Transitioning to Keto for Sugar Control

After having her two sons, Shandra found herself struggling with sugar cravings and energy slumps. Seeking a new approach, she switched to a keto diet, focusing on high-fat, low-carb foods to reduce sugar intake. The keto approach gave her a feeling of satiety and steady energy, helping her further her weight loss goals.

• The keto diet helped curb sugar cravings and promoted fat loss.
• She learned new recipes that replaced processed carbohydrates and sugars with whole, nutrient-dense foods.

Building Habits: Exercise from the Ground Up

Shandra knew that sustainable change meant incorporating movement into her daily life. With a plan in mind, she committed to an initial 21-day streak at the gym—a strategy inspired by the idea that it takes about 21 days to form a new habit.

• In the beginning, her workouts were limited to walking on a treadmill.
• Small increments: She added short bursts of jogging as her stamina improved.
• Eventually, walking turned into jog-walk intervals, and jogging became running.

“At first, all I could handle was walking. But by the end, I was able to run for longer stretches. Each day felt a little easier,” Shandra noted.

Discovering a Passion for Running

With consistency came progress. Over time, Shandra became an avid runner, something she never expected when she first started.

• Her husband, an ultra-runner, became a supportive partner and inspiration.
• Running became a family activity—as much about mental health and enjoyment as physical fitness.
• After years of training, Shandra completed her first half marathon.

Today, she exercises three to six days a week, integrating both cardio and weightlifting by following targeted training programs like the JD Fit “Ignite” program managed by Janelle Flanagan.

“Last year, I ran my first half marathon. My husband and I spend a lot of time on the trails (and also at home on the treadmill).”

Five Years of Progress: The Numbers Behind the Transformation

The Maintenance Mindset

The biggest test came after reaching her goal weight. Maintaining a major weight loss requires a different mindset than losing the weight in the first place.

• Shandra has maintained her 110-pound weight loss for over a year and a half.
• She credits her continued progress to routine, self-honesty, and flexibility.
• There is no perfect day or perfect week, but she never lets small setbacks derail her long-term vision.

“The journey is never truly complete. There are always new goals and new motivations, but knowing how far I’ve come keeps me moving forward,” she reflects.

What Worked: The Best Lessons from Shandra’s Journey

• Accountability: Whether through WW meetings, a running partner, or logging progress privately, accountability provided structure.
• Habit Building: Focusing on one change at a time—like daily walks or meal prepping—helped build momentum.
• Self-Compassion: Instead of guilt over slip-ups, she reset her mindset and returned to healthy habits the next day.
• Finding Enjoyment: Making fitness fun through running, exploring new foods, or involving family ensured motivation lasted.
• Taking Responsibility: Owning her choices and her journey empowered Shandra and gave her a sense of control over her path.

How Shandra Stays Motivated Today

• She continues to set new athletic challenges, like running events and strength goals.
• Health, not just appearance, drives her commitment.
• Her family, especially staying active with her children, remains at the heart of her why.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long did it take Shandra to lose 110 pounds?

A: It took her approximately five years, with the first 60 pounds lost before her children were born and the remaining 50 pounds after.

Q: What diets did Shandra use?

A: Shandra used a combination of the WW (formerly Weight Watchers) program at first, then transitioned to the keto diet after her pregnancies to manage sugar cravings and promote fat loss.

Q: What is her exercise routine now?

A: She exercises three to six days each week, alternating between running, weight training, and specific fitness challenges. Her favorite programs include the JD Fit “Ignite” challenge.

Q: How did she stay motivated during setbacks?

A: Shandra focused on her long-term vision, allowed for flexibility when life was hectic, and always returned to her healthy habits rather than giving up.

Q: What’s her advice for long-term maintenance?

A: Keep setting new goals, stay accountable, and develop a support system. Maintenance is about consistency and responding to challenges with self-compassion instead of all-or-nothing thinking.

Shandra’s Top Takeaways for Weight Loss Success

• Change starts with taking responsibility. Recognize your power to transform your habits and your health.
• Progress is not linear. Expect setbacks, but don’t view them as failure.
• Find joy in the process. Whether it’s a new type of workout, a new recipe, or sharing success with loved ones.
• Use the community around you. Partner support, structured programs, and online resources all matter.

What Shandra’s Story Teaches Us

Shandra’s transformation was not about quick fixes or perfection. It was about learning, pivoting, and celebrating each milestone—no matter how small. By sharing her journey, she inspires anyone facing a daunting climb toward health: with commitment and patience, you can build a life you’re proud of, step by step.

Resources for Your Own Transformation

• WW (formerly Weight Watchers): Structured nutrition guidance and accountability.
• Keto Diet: For managing cravings and modifying your nutrition.
• Running Plans: Many online and local resources, from beginner to advanced.
• Support Groups: Community is powerful. Join online forums or social media groups for motivation.
• Apps: Tracking food, fitness, and progress can build awareness and accountability.

Final Inspiration

No matter how high the climb, the first step is always the most important. Shandra’s story shows that with willingness to change, the right tools, and a mindset of self-compassion, lasting transformation is possible.