If you were to ask who the most important people in our lives are, most of us would respond with our family. If you were to ask any parent that same question, many, without hesitation will say their kids. If you’re a parent you know this to be 100% true! And for this amazing husband and super dad of 4 cute little boys, there is no exception. We had the opportunity to sit down with Miguel Arroliga and were truly inspired by his story.
Driving Career Success
Miguel has been a high level performer in one of the most stressful work environments you can probably imagine, the military. Like most of us who find ourselves focused on a demanding career and balancing our home life, it is a challenge. For Miguel, most of his energy and effort was dedicated to his career and family. Leaving little time and energy to prioritize taking care of himself. Slowly over the years this began to take a toll on his own health. Miguel found himself at almost 300 lbs, the heaviest he had ever been.
At this moment, Miguel “was inspired to change it.”
Miguel's Transformation
In our interview, we learn about Miguel’s incredible journey, his refreshing perspective on challenges and accepting where he was physically, and ultimately his transformation to becoming the best version of himself.
Briefly tell us about yourself. Tell us about your life before you started on this path to a more fit, healthier version of you. How did you feel overall about yourself and where you were physically?
Answer: I’m a Husband, a Father, and a “not so young” professional. I’ve always had an active life and with that an active appetite. After college I enlisted in the Army and began a very exciting career that ended in 2018. Soon after I left military service I started to gain weight expeditiously and I had no problems with it. Matter of fact, I’m surprised my wife never really made a big issue about it; now that’s unconditional love. I was happy with my body at the time and became complacent with the situation. I had been restrained of my “foodie” behavior for years and I was finally ready to set it free! And free I let it be!
What inspired you to change and begin your transformation journey?
Answer: My inspiration was subtle and over time. Looking at myself in the mirror and embracing what a 293 lb. version of myself looked like, I then and there was inspired to change it. This was on the evening of December 31st 2019, needless to say, I indulged in the night’s festivities to include the food. I began my journey the following day. New Year, New Me!
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced before beginning this process?
Answer: At almost 300 lbs. I was physically limited. I started by looking at my diet. I had already been through the rollercoaster ride of fad diets. It was a ride that would always end abruptly and making me feel worse than when I started. This time I was determined NOT to do any program that I had to buy into. I started by simply calorie counting. I adopted the recommended 2500 calorie intake according to my size and started logging everything I ate. I was surprised at how much I could actually eat with 2500 calories but it took a little bit of critical thinking in assessing the worth/reward of having certain foods. Once I got down to 270 lbs I started to incorporate intermittent fasting. Physically, I started by walking 2-5 miles a day or working out 45-60 mins on an elliptical or stationary bike.
How has your life changed since your transformation? How has becoming this version of yourself impacted your life, your career, your family?
Answer: I don’t think my transformation is complete. Happiness is a constant pursuit and so is fitness. Ironically I believe these two are directly related. The healthier you look and feel, the happier you will look and feel. But to answer the question, my life has changed in very tangible ways. It has improved virtually every single aspect of my life. My vitals are at the best they have been in my adult life. New doors, which were once closed have been re-opened for career advancement. My marriage and the interaction with my children have improved by receiving a more active me.
What advice would you give to anyone just starting out on their fitness journey?
Answer: I would tell them that NOTHING gets built over night. That small, constant, and deliberate changes go a long way. Nothing that promises a short turnaround is likely to be sustainable. I would also tell them that it starts with YOU. No one can motivate you to make the change but yourself because at the end of the day when the trainers go home, friends and family go to sleep… it’s just going to be YOU and your thoughts, asking yourself if you really want to do THIS.
Miguel, thank you for allowing us to share your incredible story!
At Body Legacy, we believe that our legacy is not what you leave behind but instead it is a living declaration of how you choose to live every day. Miguel’s decision to become the best version of himself not only changed the quality of his own life but it also impacted the lives of those whom he cares about the most, his family. As we launch our series, Legacy Builders, we will be featuring members of our amazing community and their inspiring journeys.
Disclaimer: This is not a paid advertisement. Miguel is a verified Body Legacy customer. The fitness or weight loss results featured in this blog are specific to the individual who achieved them and may not be typical for everyone. Results may vary depending on various factors such as genetics, lifestyle habits, and dedication to a fitness or weight loss program. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any fitness or weight loss program, and to set realistic goals based on one's individual circumstances. The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. The author and publisher of this blog are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences that may arise from following the information provided herein.
