Health
How Paulette Szalay Lost 130 Pounds After 60
Health Points
- Paulette Szalay, 60, transformed her health and lost 133 pounds after a pivotal mindset change.
- Small adjustments to diet and exercise routines, including strength training and portion control, made a major difference.
- Her journey highlights the power of motivation and finding support environments, like judgment-free gyms.
Paulette Szalay spent years struggling with her weight and the health consequences that followed, including high blood pressure, cholesterol, and acid reflux. Everything shifted after an inspiring moment on Easter Sunday in 2022, leading her to believe she could finally make a change.
“That pivotal moment was on Easter Sunday of 2022. I was close to 260 pounds. I was an educator, working on the second floor, and I could no longer walk up and down the stairs. I had to take the elevator.”
Saddled with the idea that losing weight after menopause was impossible, Paulette felt isolated and discouraged. Her turning point came on the beach, where seeing another older woman confidently wearing a bikini sparked something inside her.
“I had the mentality that I couldn’t lose weight after menopause, and that this was the way I was going to be for the rest of my life. I was depressed. I didn’t feel like I was part of society. I felt like I was always looked at or put down.”
Instead of retreating, Paulette took action: her first healthy meal marked the beginning of her transformation. She announced to her family her commitment to a new lifestyle, opting for grilled salmon and vegetables over traditional pasta dishes.
“I saw this woman from behind, and I was admiring her shape and her bathing suit. She turned around, and I could clearly see that she was an older woman. I thought if she could rock a bikini, so could I. She was my inspiration. It was not something I was looking for or contemplating. It truly just hit me: ‘I can do this.’ That was my moment.”
By sticking with nutrition changes and gradually increasing her exercise, Paulette lost 133 pounds over three years. She no longer needs blood pressure or cholesterol medication and enjoys steady energy throughout the day.
Paulette’s gym journey started with just five minutes on a treadmill. She credits the supportive environment at Planet Fitness for helping her gain confidence regardless of age or size.
“I was so heavy. I was fearful of people looking at me. At Planet Fitness, there were people of all ages and all sizes, and I felt very comfortable. The first day I went, I was clueless. When I got on the treadmill, I turned to one of the workers and said, ‘What do I do?’ And they helped me and welcomed me.”
Over time, her abilities increased—she now works out for an hour or longer a few times each week, combining cardio and strength training. She prefers to exercise at night, finding it helps her relax and sleep soundly.
Meal planning also played a key role in her results. Working with a nutritionist, Paulette learned to choose lean proteins, manage carbs, and replace old cooking habits with healthier ones like grilling and air frying.
“Part of my Italian culture is that pasta would be your main dish. Instead of having pasta four or five times a week, I would have a small portion as a side dish.”
Her consistent efforts brought many rewards: not only a dramatic change in health, but new opportunities, such as modeling and a growing social media presence. She even appeared on a magazine cover and bought her first bikini, celebrating with newfound confidence.
If Paulette’s journey inspires you, remember that lasting change can start with a single choice—regardless of age or history. Seek supportive environments, set realistic goals, and celebrate every healthy step forward.
