Meet Spencer Steele, a man who, just twelve months ago, weighed a staggering 375 lbs, struggling to even climb a flight of stairs without gasping for breath. Fast forward to today, and Spencer has shed an incredible 200 lbs, and is now a triumphant triathlete.
In the past, Spencer, 28, felt stuck in a rut, seeking solace in junk food and a sedentary lifestyle. He described himself as the laziest person around, spending evenings immersed in video games and mindlessly consuming unhealthy food until bedtime.
At his heaviest, wearing XXXL shirts and size 48 pants, Spencer felt trapped in a cycle he couldn’t break. “I wasn’t eating out of hunger but out of a quest for temporary solace,” Spencer admitted.
Despite his constant eating, Spencer, hailing from Omaha, Nebraska, was left drained and fatigued, resorting to caffeine to stay alert—yet still falling asleep in public.
Struggling with weight loss attempts in the past, Spencer felt lost and hopeless at his heaviest, relying on energy drinks to get through the day. His battle with sleep apnea further compounded his fatigue, making everyday tasks an overwhelming challenge.
Recognizing the negative cycle of sleep apnea and weight gain, dietary specialist, Balls, emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle in terms of food, exercise, and sleep patterns.
Turning Point Leading to Transformation
In 2023, Spencer decided he had enough of feeling fatigued and self-conscious, seeking help from his mom who connected him with an online coach to kickstart his journey to fitness.
By incorporating daily workouts and a healthier diet, replacing junk food with home-cooked meals, Spencer began to see progress. “Exercise is the cherry on top of healthy eating,” Spencer explained.
Determined to escalate his progress, Spencer added running to his routine, ensuring consistency in his workouts whether indoors or outdoors.
Setting a challenging goal to lose 200 lbs and conquer a triathlon, Spencer remained motivated, believing in his capabilities despite doubts.
Persistence Pays Off
On July 21, 2024, Spencer crossed the finish line of his first triathlon, completing it in 2 hours and 11 seconds. Overwhelmed by his journey, Spencer reflected on the countless moments he pushed himself to achieve his goals.
Already planning his next challenge, an Olympic distance triathlon, Spencer is determined to inspire others through his remarkable transformation.
Sharing his journey on Reddit, Spencer’s post went viral, garnering praise for his dedication and hard work. Comments flooded in, acknowledging his incredible progress and calling him an inspiration.