I Got to My Dream Weight with the Help of Kayla Itsines

By the time I graduated college, my indulgences became an everyday occurrence, and I could tell it was catching up with me.

RELATED: Here’s Why Kayla Itsines’ Workouts Are Taking Over the World

That's when I found the trainer Kayla Itsines' Instagram. When I saw the before-and-after photos of women who had taken on her program, I thought that I could give it a shot.

I started using Kayla's workout guide and tackled two rounds of exercises in six months. I worked out six days a week, following her formula.

At first, I didn't feel like I was making real progress. But I decided that it would take time and dedication to get the results I wanted. I felt accomplished knowing that I gave it my best at the gym, even if it wasn't a killer workout.

The workouts never got easier, but I gained confidence. I walked into the weight room without feeling intimidated, and really loved gaining strength and realizing that I can push myself. (Try these body-changing workouts from Women's Health's Look Better Naked DVD.)

I also used the program's food guide as a reference to figure out what meals would fuel me.

I cut out all processed foods and stopped going to restaurants. It sounds drastic, but I wanted to fall in love with cooking and keep an eye on where my food came from.

RELATED:  This Girl’s Bangin’ Booty Transformation Comes Courtesy of Kayla Itsines—and Yes, It’s Real

I started learning new recipes and being proud of what I put on the plate. Though it was hard to stop eating things like cheese, felt like I had more energy and my body felt like it was functioning better.

By trying to incorporate as many veggies as possible, I learned that I love Brussels sprouts. As a kid I didn’t really try them, but now they’re a staple.

After six months of eating this way, I started listening to my body more and lightened up about which foods I ate. I didn’t want to eliminate certain food groups just because I thought they might make me gain weight.

After six months, I lost 10 pounds, and I kept up my healthy habits. At this point, I started lifting more often and mixed some of Kayla's moves into my routine.

Remembering how much I’ve accomplished helps me stick with my new lifestyle. Doing pullups and shoulder presses with 25-pound dumbbells isn’t something I ever imagined I could do, but now I can.

Two years later, I've lost 25 pounds and am truly passionate about fitness. In fact, I've decided to become a certified personal trainer.

Everyone says this, but ditch the scale. Don’t worry about a number or looking like someone else. Just trust your body.