Peloton's Tunde Oyeneyin lost 70 pounds and kept it off. She says it all boiled down to changing her mindset.

• Peloton's Tunde Oyeneyin said she lost 70 pounds long-term by shifting her mindset.
• She said the key was focusing on consistency, healthy habits, and improvements in her confidence.

Star Peloton instructor Tunde Oyeneyin said once struggled with her weight, and was able to sustainably lose 70 pounds by changing her mindset to focus on self-improvement.

"While I lost the weight, my journey has been more about what I've gained," she told Insider. "I've gained confidence, and an understanding of my power."

Oyeneyin said the turning point happened when, in eighth grade, she was asked to be a bridesmaid in her cousin's wedding, and the dress didn't fit, prompting her mother to sew two dresses together for her to wear.

"That was the moment I knew I needed to make a change," she said.

She started an exercise routine and began developing the mindset and habits to lose weight and keep it off, focusing on consistency, listening to her body, and good nutrition.

Staying consistent kept her motivated

You can't make progress with physical changes unless you're also addressing any mental obstacles in the way of your goals, in Oyeneyin's experience.

"I say in a lot of my classes that your mind is the strongest muscle, and it's really about a mindset change," she said. "You need to mentally do the work while you're working your body."

She said people often ask her about how she stays motivated, and her answer is that consistently showing up and dedicating herself to her goals is part of the mindset that helps her succeed.

The specific mental shifts that need to happen can vary from person to person, however, depending on your background, approach, and goal.

"I don't think there's necessarily a formula or a one size fits all," she said.

Habits like morning workouts and getting enough protein keep her on track

Oyeneyin said part of her success and consistency comes from a strong routine, such as working out at the same time each morning.

"I'm a creature of habit," she said.

She also likes to follow up her workouts with good recovery habits, like drinking a nutrient-packed protein shake or smoothie to support muscle health.

For pre-workout snacks, she plans ahead to match that day's exercise, whether it's weightlifting or endurance training, to get enough protein, carbs, and healthy fats for fuel.

Oyeneyin said she also keeps her nutrition on point by combining healthy and indulgent foods with recipes like protein pancakes.

But she doesn't force exercise if it doesn't feel right

While dedication is important to making progress, Oyeneyin said it's equally important that she gives herself the flexibility and grace to change plans when needed. For instance, she keeps a sustainable exercise routine by adjusting it to match what feels right for her body.

"If I planned a long run and my body says "No, girl, no," maybe I'll do a lifting session or just put on some music and dance around the house," she said. "It's a matter of listening to my body to know how my body functions at its best."