Y member loses nearly 200 pounds

Nine years ago Ramon Ibarra was having the typical health problems that come with being overweight, including high blood pressure.

“I got tired really easily,” he said. “I couldn’t even tie my shoes.”

He weighed 385 pounds and his doctor suggested he join a gym and get into an exercise routine.  Ibarra became a regular at the Marshalltown YMCA-YWCA and has been an inspiration. He now weighs 198 pounds, so he has lost nearly 200 pounds.

Ibarra does cardio work on the treadmill or track at the Y and also mixes in strength training. He said the key was being consistent with his exercise as he visits the Y five times a week.

“You have to have dedication to get to your goals and I took it really seriously,” Ibarra said. “And the staff at the Y have been very helpful.”

Ibarra works in the banking industry in Marshalltown and jokes that one customer who was gone for years came back and couldn’t believe it was Ramon he was talking to.

“He said ‘no, you are not Ramon, you were big,’” Ibarra said. “He was shocked.”

Ibarra wants to tell his story to help others on a path to a healthier lifestyle.

“I want to inspire other people because I know how hard it is when you are overweight,” he said. “I didn’t have confidence before and now I do. Just start small and be dedicated.”