I Lost It: 'Motivation, Inspiration And Hard Work Is Needed'

Abdullah Malik, 19, Tampa

Height: 5 foot 9

Starting weight: 300

Current weight: 180

Why I did it: I have always wanted to become a model or an actor. I went to a modeling shoot and was told by the director to lose weight before I could even dream to enter this world. Since then, fitness and healthy living have become my lifestyle. Without it, I'm a man without a heartbeat.

I started in June 2007. It took about nine months to lose all this weight and get to where I am at this time. But a lot of motivation, inspiration and hard work is needed.

How I did it: I actually started off with the Atkins diet. With that diet, I lost 50 pounds in two months. It was pretty quick because I was consistent and dedicated, even up to today.

I cut off all carbs. I also try to eliminate as much salt and sugars as possible.

I focus on wheat bread, grilled food, vegetables and juices. I eat vegetables because they contain phytochemicals, which protect the body against disease and clean and fight fat. I eat fruits a lot because they contain natural sugar, which enhances your body and mind. And wheat bread contains fewer carbs than white bread.

I eat three times a day. I have a light breakfast before I go run, because at that time a body tends to lose more body fat than normal. I do not eat snacks a lot. If I do, it might be a very small amount of chocolate (but only if I've been consistent on the diet for three weeks).

Also, I started trying to run every day. I remember I could not even run on the treadmill for more than five minutes at a time. But I did not give up and pushed myself until I would sometimes fall off the machine. I increased my running and started running an hour a day on the treadmill.

I also started building my stamina as I got more into martial arts. I began martial arts three to four years ago at my town in Kuwait (I am a U.S. citizen studying at Hillsborough Community College). It did not help me lose weight back then because I never took it seriously. I didn't attend consistently or run daily. Running is one of the keys to losing weight; and eating right.

Hurdles: Yes, there are many. First, it is not easy. Second, many people may tell you that you cannot do it. They may be your own family members. Now, when those people see me, they just smile and are shocked because I did it.

Going the distance: I was inspired a lot by having faith in myself and God. Always remember that having motivations and goals in life will make you achieve what you want.

I currently am in very good athletic shape and am well-toned. Many people do not recognize my past pictures from what I look like now. Many people at the Brandon YMCA are inspired by my story.

I am still consistent with my daily workout, which I do six to seven days a week. And I continue to push myself. I run, on average, nonstop for 90 to 120 minutes a day.

I am glad I can help motivate people and change their lives and views on themselves. I have been maintaining my weight for a year and will in the future.

Best advice: I have learned that no matter what anyone says, there is nothing that can stop you. You can achieve your goal and make it happen. Always think about your goals. Write them down and place them around you.

Do not cheat or lie to yourself. Be committed to yourself and your lifestyle of losing weight. Show your willpower to people around you. Show them you are strong enough.