This episode of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast follows Denise’s inspiring journey through bariatric surgery, bodybuilding, and discovering the transformative power of muscle and strength. Joined by Dr. Weiner and Zoe, Denise shares how she’s redefined her goals and found lasting wellness, showing that post-surgery life is about much more than just weight loss—it’s about building resilience and confidence.

A Fresh Start with Bariatric Surgery

Denise’s journey began in 2018, six years ago, when she moved to North Carolina and sought bariatric surgery to improve her health. She invested time in therapy beforehand to address anxiety and its impact on her relationship with food, which helped her approach surgery with full commitment. Within a year, she lost 110 pounds and transformed her mindset about food and body image.

Shifting Focus: From Weight Loss to Building Muscle and Strength

As Denise reached her lowest weight, she realized her new goal was not just to stay lean but to build a strong, muscular physique that reflected her resilience. She shifted from focusing on the scale to prioritizing muscle growth, redefining her goals based on body composition and the satisfaction of seeing her body change. By accepting a slight increase on the scale as a sign of muscle gain, Denise embraced her evolving body and set the foundation for a balanced, sustainable fitness journey.

Creating a Consistent Bodybuilding Routine for Success

Supported by her husband, a personal trainer, Denise started with three full-body workouts per week and a daily walking goal of 10,000 steps. This gradual start allowed her to build confidence, focusing on proper form and avoiding injury. As she progressed, Denise increased her workout frequency and noticed significant changes in her muscle tone and strength, finding new motivation as her goals evolved.

Nutrition for Muscle and Strength After Bariatric Surgery

Achieving muscle and strength after bariatric surgery required a new approach to nutrition. Denise learned to incorporate carbs strategically, pairing them with protein and healthy fats to fuel her workouts. Tracking her food intake helped her develop a balanced relationship with food and allowed her to fuel her body for optimal strength gains.

Long-Term Goals: Muscle and Strength for Healthy Aging

Now nearly 50, Denise continues to set and achieve fitness goals with the long-term view of staying healthy as she ages. She trains four days a week, with muscle-building as her strategy for healthy aging. Dr. Weiner calls muscle “the fountain of youth,” noting how Denise’s commitment to strength training will help her maintain her health and vitality for years to come.

Denise’s journey is a powerful reminder that bariatric surgery can be a gateway to lasting health and strength. Her experience shows that muscle-building and mindfulness can help post-surgery patients thrive, offering them a foundation for confidence, resilience, and a strong future.