Tracee Ellis Ross, the radiant and powerhouse actress we all know from Black-ish and the iconic Girlfriends, has captivated the hearts of millions not only with her acting talent but also with her unwavering commitment to self-love, body positivity, and wellness. As she approaches her 51st year, Tracee has made waves not just in her career but also in the way she approaches fitness and health, showing fans how dedication, self-awareness, and balance can lead to a powerful transformation.
But what’s really behind Tracee Ellis Ross’s weight loss journey? What inspired her to make these changes, and how did she manage to transform her body while maintaining her mental and emotional well-being? Let’s take a deep dive into her story.
The Moment of Realization: Body Image Struggles and Breakthroughs
Like many of us, Tracee Ellis Ross has had her own battles with body image. In a world constantly obsessed with perfection, it can be hard to navigate the complexities of self-esteem and physical appearance, especially as a public figure. For Ross, these struggles were often layered with the pressures of being in the spotlight, where her every move—and every inch—was scrutinized.
“It’s funny because I’ve always been aware of my body. But the weight that people put on us, especially in Hollywood, is a lot. I used to feel the pressure to look a certain way,” she shared in an emotional Instagram post. “But I had to remind myself that it wasn’t about conforming to anyone’s expectations. It was about me feeling strong, healthy, and happy.”
It was in her late 40s that she began seriously reassessing her health and fitness, not because she was trying to fit into someone else’s mold, but because she wanted to feel her best, inside and out.
A New Approach: Focusing on Health, Not Just Weight
Tracee’s approach to health and fitness is refreshingly holistic. Unlike many who focus solely on the number on the scale, Tracee wanted a fitness routine that would make her feel strong and energized—one that would serve her physically, emotionally, and mentally.
“I want to be strong. I want to feel capable,” Tracee explained during an interview with People. “I used to think of exercise as something I ‘had to’ do. Now, it’s something I get excited about. I’m not doing it to lose weight. I’m doing it to gain energy, vitality, and confidence.”
This mindset shift was crucial for Tracee. Weight loss wasn’t her sole focus—instead, she wanted a lifestyle change that was sustainable and that would help her maintain the stamina required to perform on set, run her beauty brand (Pattern Beauty), and just live life to the fullest.
Tracee Ellis Ross’s Weight Loss Timeline and Transformation
Tracee’s weight loss journey didn’t happen overnight. In fact, it’s an ongoing process. But over the past couple of years, the results have been undeniable. Ross has maintained a weight that allows her to feel strong and confident, all while staying true to her commitment to self-care.
In recent social media posts, Tracee has openly shared her workout routines and diet habits, inspiring many to adopt a balanced approach to health. She’s known to prioritize intense workout sessions that combine cardio and strength training, specifically through the Tracy Anderson Method, a high-intensity workout that focuses on functional fitness, muscle tone, and overall stamina.
“I’m doing exercises that make my body feel strong,” Ross said in one of her Instagram posts showcasing her workout routine. “I love feeling the muscle activation and seeing my body change. It’s all about listening to what my body needs.”
At the start of her journey, Tracee weighed approximately 170 lbs. As of 2024, she has shed around 15 pounds, landing at 155 lbs, though she emphasizes that the number isn’t what matters most. It’s how she feels and the energy she has that truly marks the success of her transformation.
Her goal wasn’t just weight loss—it was about becoming the best version of herself at every age.
Diet and Nutrition: A Focus on Whole Foods and Balance
As part of her health transformation, Tracee has made major strides in her diet, although she emphasizes that it’s not about restriction or dieting in the traditional sense. She has adopted a plant-based diet that’s rich in whole foods, seasonal vegetables, and lean proteins. She’s also been known to cut back on sugar, gluten, and dairy, while occasionally indulging in her love for salty snacks, like potato chips, which she has mentioned enjoying in moderation.
“I’ve learned to eat in a way that makes me feel good. I don’t deprive myself, but I don’t overindulge either,” Tracee said in an interview with POPSUGAR. “Eating healthy is about nourishment—not about fitting into a certain size. It’s about eating to fuel my body.”
For Tracee, staying hydrated is key. Drinking plenty of water helps her maintain her energy and mental clarity throughout the day. She’s also a huge advocate for sleep, saying that eight hours of rest is crucial to her wellness routine.
Mental Wellness and Self-Care: The Other Side of the Coin
Tracee Ellis Ross’s transformation wasn’t just physical. It was deeply emotional and mental as well. Over the years, she’s been candid about the importance of mental health, especially as she navigates the pressures of being a public figure. She’s openly discussed the mental struggles that come with the industry, including the challenges of being a Black woman in Hollywood, where beauty standards can often feel limiting.
“I had to learn to accept my body as it is, at every stage of my life. There are days when I feel great, and there are days when I don’t. But those are the days when I have to be extra kind to myself,” she shared during an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. “This journey isn’t about perfection. It’s about embracing who you are in the moment.”
This message of self-compassion and self-acceptance has resonated deeply with fans and followers, making Tracee not just an inspiration for physical fitness but also for emotional resilience and mental well-being.
Tracee Ellis Ross’s Weight Loss: Tips for Anyone Looking to Transform Their Health
So, what can we take away from Tracee’s inspiring transformation? Here are some actionable tips for anyone looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle, just like Tracee:
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Find an Exercise You Love: Tracee isn’t doing exercises just for the sake of weight loss. She’s doing it because she enjoys it. Find an exercise routine that makes you feel energized, whether it’s strength training, yoga, or something else that excites you.
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Eat for Nourishment: Eating should be about fueling your body, not depriving it. Prioritize whole foods, vegetables, and lean proteins, while allowing yourself the occasional indulgence.
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Practice Self-Care: Mental health is just as important as physical health. Take time for self-compassion, and make mental wellness a priority in your routine.
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Hydrate and Rest: Drink plenty of water and get enough sleep. Both are essential for maintaining your energy levels and supporting overall health.
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Consistency is Key: Tracee’s success is rooted in consistent effort—not in quick fixes. Focus on making small, sustainable changes to your routine.
Embracing Strength at Every Age
Tracee Ellis Ross’s weight loss journey is about more than just shedding pounds. It’s about strength, empowerment, and embracing the process of becoming a healthier version of herself. Through dedication to her physical health, mental wellness, and self-compassion, Tracee continues to inspire others to live their best lives—regardless of age or external pressures.
So, when we look at Tracee now—at 51—what we see isn’t just a slimmer body. We see a woman who has fully embraced her own power, both inside and out. And isn’t that the most inspiring transformation of all?