Danni Allen On Life After Winning The Biggest Loser
Updated: Jul. 24, 2017
The Biggest Loser 14 winner Danni Allen has plans to keep off the weight she lost on the show. She tells us what keeps her motivated and how the show has changed her entire lifestyle.
Danni Allen after The Biggest Loser
Would you accept a complete support system to help you lose weight? But there’s a catch: You’ve got to share your journey on television for the world to see. That’s what Danni Allen did, when she was on The Biggest Loser season 14. We connected with the reality star and goal crusher (she lost 121 pounds – size 20 to a size 4) to find out how the show motivated her and how she’s never going back to her original weight.
What did the The Biggest Loser give you that you weren’t able to do on your own?
“Being a part of the show gave me the confidence to feel comfortable in my own skin, no matter what size I was along the way. Being a participant in an initiative like that reminded me that it is OK to fail. In fact, I learned more through failure – and picking myself back up – along the way.”
What advice would you give people looking to lose weight who have the same obstacles but no access to being a contestant?
“Start simple. I have [since] found my rhythm at Planet Fitness, of course. The judgement-free zone really makes all the difference. Spend some time at the gym or outside if you can, but honestly – start in the kitchen. Take a moment to actually look at the food you are eating. The first thing I changed: I stopped drinking diet pop altogether. And find a buddy! Misery loves company, right? Just kidding, but having someone keep you accountable is key.”
Your transformation is more than about losing weight. You are strong. When did that goal come to you? What was the game changer?
“Losing weight for me was more than a number on a scale: My transformation meant I wasn’t cutting myself short anymore. The change happened after the show. When I no longer had a team, it was just Jillian and me. I took it one weigh-in at a time. Each time I stood on the scale, I was confident I had done all that I could. I literally felt like I could tackle anything – except snakes, never snakes.”
How much do you work out now?
“I work out for 45 to 60 minutes four to five days a week. […] I do a little bit of everything. Yoga, running and cycling are my favorites. It’s true: I actually enjoy working out.”
Do you always eat healthy?
“Heck no! I live in Chicago. If you told me I couldn’t have a slice of pizza, we’d have a problem. It’s all about balance, I plan, plan, plan my meals/ That way I know I can really enjoy a cheat meal here and there.”
You’ve said before that you don’t want the weight to come back, and you do that by setting the next goal. What are some upcoming goals for you?
“What am I excited about next? Let’s see: Running marathons, triathlons, getting my yoga certification and travel. I’m headed to Croatia this summer, and I can’t wait.”
What is one part of the weight loss you’ve never been asked about, but was a big driver in your transformation?
“I think I have been asked everything, trust me. I’ve seen and heard it all. But I am happy to share my story, if it helps inspire others in their own personal fitness journeys. I am an open book.
“Working out and eating right is the easy part. Sticking to a routine and keeping your willpower up is the challenge. Surrounding yourself with the right people that can support your journey makes all the difference.”
Need some more inspiration. Try these motivating articles:
• Never Skip the Gym Again: 10 Workout Motivation Hacks
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• Motivating Foods: What To Eat To Put You In The Mood For A Run
• Running Playlist: 10 Songs with Motivating Lyrics
• How to Kick-Start Weight Loss
