{"id":379081,"date":"2025-12-31T03:45:14","date_gmt":"2025-12-31T03:45:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/379081\/"},"modified":"2025-12-31T03:45:14","modified_gmt":"2025-12-31T03:45:14","slug":"man-who-struggled-to-lose-weight-sheds-7-stone-and-gets-abs-after-spotting-instagram-ad","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/379081\/","title":{"rendered":"Man who struggled to lose weight sheds 7 stone and gets abs after spotting Instagram ad"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Brian Presley lost more than 100 pounds after spotting an ad for an app on InstagramThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mirror.co.uk\/affiliates\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1_Brian-Presley_before_and_after_02.jpg\" alt=\"Brian Presley lost over 100 pounds using the Simple app\" loading=\"eager\"  \/>Brian Presley lost over 100 pounds using the Simple app(Image: Simple app)<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">For countless people, January signals the time to get fit, with gym sign-ups soaring, workout kit flying off the shelves, and endless scrolling through nutrition programmes online. However, for Houston-based fitness instructor Brian Presley, it wasn&#8217;t about chasing the latest fads or jumping on the newest dietary bandwagon.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">He had been training for years, but around 2019\u20132020, he encountered a maddening sticking point. Regardless of how intensely he exercised, he said he couldn&#8217;t seem to break through a particular barrier, and his development ground to a halt.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">&#8220;I started using the <a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/go.linkby.com\/AXOSBYQU\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\">Simple app<\/a> probably around roughly 2019-2020, that&#8217;s when I had really started to hit a plateau, and I needed to actually get past that plateau,&#8221; Presley explains. &#8220;I needed something to help me. Then I actually saw an ad on Instagram for the app, and after I did that, I took off,&#8221; he added.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\"><a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/go.linkby.com\/AXOSBYQU\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\">Prior to finding Simple<\/a>, Brian frequently shed a bit of weight only to become trapped. Employing a personal trainer wasn&#8217;t feasible, so he had to discover an alternative approach, reports <a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dailystar.co.uk\/life-style\/man-shed-7-stone-abs-36451617\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\"the Daily StarLink opens in a new tab.\" rel=\"follow nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\">the Daily Star<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">He merged intermittent fasting with more nutritious meals, eliminating fried dishes and other options that didn&#8217;t work for his physique. &#8220;I decided to not only fast for my journey, but also implement the right kind of healthy foods so that I wasn&#8217;t struggling after a fast,&#8221; he says.<\/p>\n<p>The deal is available on the Simple app<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1767152712_245_0_eating_patterns_banner_c74c2df063.jpg\" alt=\"Content Image\" fetchpriority=\"auto\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">The Simple app helps people track their food, exercise, and overall wellness in one place<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">This strategy, combined with regular exercise sessions, enabled Brian to <a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/go.linkby.com\/AXOSBYQU\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\">drop more than 100 pounds<\/a> and enhance his muscle definition. He credits the blend of fasting, portion management, and physical activity as having &#8220;done wonders&#8221;, explaining he was &#8220;able to lose more than 100 pounds, get back into better shape, feel better (and) have more confidence.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">The <a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/go.linkby.com\/AXOSBYQU\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\">Simple app<\/a> became a crucial element of Brian&#8217;s daily regime. He utilised it to monitor fasting periods, record meals, and access tailored workout routines.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">He also appreciated interactive elements such as <a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/go.linkby.com\/AXOSBYQU\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\">Blinky<\/a>, the app&#8217;s accountability mascot, and <a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/go.linkby.com\/AXOSBYQU\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\">Avo<\/a>, an AI wellness coach offering guidance and advice. &#8220;I roughly use it two or three times a week, just to keep my value straight. It is good for tracking, and it helps keep things tangible. If I can see it, then I know I can actually get the results and follow what the app is telling me to do,&#8221; Brian explains.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/0_Brian-Presley_before_and_after_03.jpg\" alt=\"Brian Presley before and after using the Simple app\" loading=\"lazy\"  \/>Brian Presley before and after using the Simple app(Image: Simple)<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">He continued: &#8220;When I was heavier and had more weight on me, it was harder to be more energized. I was tired, I was sluggish. I wasn&#8217;t very attuned to how my energy flowed through my body. So now that I&#8217;ve lost fat, I&#8217;m in better shape, and I am healthier. I&#8217;m actually able to feel better, look better, I&#8217;m more energized. I can get up earlier, I don&#8217;t feel as tired as like midday or throughout the day. Coupled with the fasting, my energy levels are through the roof, through the roof. So I have no complaints.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">For those interested, the <a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/go.linkby.com\/AXOSBYQU\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\">Simple app offers tailored plans<\/a> covering fasting, workouts, and nutrition. British users can save 60% using the code REACH60, and purchasers can even gift their Simple Premium subscription to someone at no extra charge.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">The Simple app allows users to <a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/go.linkby.com\/AXOSBYQU\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\">monitor their food intake, exercise,<\/a> and general wellbeing all in one location. They can record meals through typing, voice commands, or photography, whilst utilising the NutriScanner feature to analyse nutritional content.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">The platform also features an intermittent fasting tracker that <a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/go.linkby.com\/AXOSBYQU\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\">emphasises safe, healthy practices<\/a> rather than rigid calorie counting. The app generates bespoke workout programmes, encompassing Yoga, Pilates, HIIT, walking, and Tai Chi.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1_Brian-Presley_before_and_after_01.jpg\" alt=\"Brian incorporated fasting, meal control and exercise with the app\" loading=\"lazy\"  \/>Brian incorporated fasting, meal control and exercise with the app(Image: Simple)<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">Consistency proved crucial for another user, called Presley, who credits the app&#8217;s guidance for helping him stick to his fasting, exercise, and nutrition routine, which boosted his energy levels and improved his overall health. &#8220;It&#8217;s been an awesome journey with the app. It&#8217;s actually taken me from here to here. I recommend anybody on a weight loss journey, if you can&#8217;t hire a personal coach or go to the gym, you can use this app. It will actually get you from point A to point B.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">If this app does not suit everyone&#8217;s needs, alternative options are available. <a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/www.myfitnesspal.com\/premium?source=menu_bar#pricing\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\">MyFitnessPal<\/a>, for instance, functions as a calorie tracker and BMR calculator. The application offers both free features and a premium subscription, costing \u00a319.99 per month, which includes a bespoke meal planner, access to over 1,500 recipes, and automated shopping lists.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">There&#8217;s also <a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/www.noom.com\/\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\">Noom<\/a>, a weight loss application that blends nutritional monitoring, coaching assistance and meal plans. This provides a calorie calculator, macros calculator and assists users in better understanding their dietary patterns.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1767152714_983_0_one_step_closer_banner_d3b7d46e35.jpg\" alt=\"The Simple app has been rated highly by users\" loading=\"lazy\"  \/>The Simple app has been rated highly by users(Image: The Simple App)<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">The<a class=\"TextLink_text-link__dBSS0 TextLink_enabled__dJF3l\" href=\"https:\/\/go.linkby.com\/AXOSBYQU\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" tabindex=\"0\"> Simple app <\/a>has earned an impressive 4.3 out of 5 stars from more than 34,000 reviews on Trustpilot, though. One user remarked: &#8220;I love this approach. Always you are active and focused on healthy meals. I feel energized and motivated. Thank you.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">Another user noted: &#8220;Helps me keep track of everything and keeps me motivated.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">Naturally, not every application will suit everyone, and a few users had minor criticisms, with one stating: &#8220;The app is fairly intuitive, and it is nice to be able to ask the AI assistant when I have questions about really anything at all. The only drawbacks I&#8217;ve seen are that it was really hard for me to figure out how to edit something I had logged, as well as the Avo assistant sometimes loses track of our conversation and diverts from the mission midstream.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">Nevertheless, the majority of users were satisfied, with another declaring: &#8220;Great app. Really keeps me on track.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"Paragraph_paragraph-text__PVKlh \" data-tmdatatrack=\"content-unit\" data-tmdatatrack-type=\"paragraph\">A further user praised: &#8220;Simple is far and away the best program I have found for weight loss and monitoring your activities and exercises. The AI coach is amazing and very encouraging. I&#8217;ve been on for almost 2 weeks and am already down almost 12 pounds. At 71, I appreciate the positive reinforcement and suggestions. Give it a try.&#8221;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Brian Presley lost more than 100 pounds after spotting an ad for an app on InstagramThis article contains&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":379082,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[62],"tags":[337,97,21078],"class_list":{"0":"post-379081","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-fitness","8":"tag-fitness","9":"tag-health","10":"tag-weight-loss-success-stories"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/379081","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=379081"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/379081\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/379082"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=379081"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=379081"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=379081"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}