Dropping lbs: His and hers

Romy Bennett

36, Glen Cove

Occupation middle school librarian

Height 5'6"

Weight (before October 2009)

192

Weight (after June 2010)

159

Andrew Bennett

35, Glen Cove

Occupation New York City teacher

Height 6'0"

Weight (before October 2009)

224

Weight (after June 2010)

196

THEIR STORY In July 2009, the Bennetts had their second son. Romy considered herself overweight before she got pregnant, but after her son was born, she made a commitment to herself not to buy any clothes until she lost weight.

Andrew decided to start his diet when he stepped on the scale and was shocked at how heavy he was. "I was athletic in high school and college, and I stepped on the scale and weighed 224 pounds," Andrew says. "Romy wanted to go on a diet, so I thought it was a good idea to do the same and support each other." Romy and Andrew feel they have now made a lifestyle change that they can live with for the long run.

THEIR DIET The Bennetts' diet is inspired by Dream Dinners, prepackaged meals that come sized for an appropriate serving.

THEIR EXERCISE Andrew says he has not been exercising enough but plans to play tennis, walk, run and do some weight training. Romy is constantly running after her kids, which she considers to be her daily exercise.

THEIR ADVICE Romy is a true believer in keeping track of everything that goes into her body. "Andrew and I also talk to each other at the end of the day," she says. "Having someone there to support you through it, to say, 'Don't eat the cookies, let's make low-fat popcorn,' really helps." Andrew's biggest piece of advice is not to make any drastic changes that you know you won't be able to stick to.