Corey Harrison, also known as “Big Hoss” from the popular reality TV show Pawn Stars, has captured the hearts of millions of fans not just for his quick wit and knowledge of rare collectibles, but also for his incredible weight loss transformation. Over the course of a few years, Corey went from weighing 402 pounds to a much healthier 192 pounds, shedding a staggering 192 pounds in total. This transformation wasn’t simply about losing weight—it was about reclaiming his health, redefining his lifestyle, and learning to love himself all over again.
In this article, we’ll explore Corey Harrison’s weight loss journey, the challenges he faced, the methods he used to shed the pounds, and how this journey has impacted his life both personally and professionally.
The Wake-Up Call: Realizing the Need for Change
Corey’s weight loss journey began with a wake-up call from his doctor. As he reached his 30s, his weight began to take a serious toll on his health. After years of indulging in unhealthy food choices and leading a largely sedentary lifestyle, Corey faced numerous health issues, including high blood pressure and pre-diabetes. In a candid interview, he shared that his health was quickly becoming a major concern.
“My doctor sat me down and gave me some hard truths. He told me I was heading down a dangerous path,” Corey recalled. “I was overweight, and it was starting to affect my ability to live a long and healthy life. That was the moment I realized I had to make a change.”
For Corey, the realization wasn’t just about changing how he looked—it was about ensuring he could continue to live a fulfilling, active life. His decision to lose weight wasn’t driven by vanity, but by the need to prioritize his health and well-being.
The Decision to Take Action: Making a Commitment
Corey’s decision to lose weight was a pivotal moment in his life. However, making that decision was only the beginning. He knew that the road ahead would require a complete shift in how he approached food, exercise, and his overall lifestyle. Corey was ready to make that commitment, but it wouldn’t be easy.
In 2014, Corey made the bold decision to undergo lap band surgery, a procedure that would help him take control of his eating habits and lose weight more effectively. The surgery wasn’t a quick fix—it was a tool to assist in his long-term weight loss goals.
“I knew I needed help,” Corey explained. “The lap band surgery was a way to get a jumpstart on my journey, but I knew that I would have to work hard every day after that.”
The Diet: Focus on Real Food and Portion Control
After his surgery, Corey embraced a new relationship with food. He no longer ate to satisfy cravings or out of boredom. Instead, he focused on eating real, nutrient-dense foods that fueled his body. His meals became more balanced, focusing on lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains.
Corey made a conscious effort to control his portions, a major shift from his previous overeating habits. He also began avoiding sugary drinks and excessive carbs, which had once been a regular part of his diet. “Portion control was key for me,” Corey shared. “After the surgery, I couldn’t eat as much, but I made sure to eat the right foods that would give me energy and help me feel full.”
Along with the changes in his food choices, Corey began drinking more water and cutting out sugary sodas and juices. He replaced those drinks with healthy options like unsweetened tea and sparkling water.
“The biggest thing I learned was how important it is to stay hydrated and fuel your body with the right nutrients,” Corey explained. “I used to drink a lot of soda, and I realized that was a big part of the reason I was putting on so much weight.”
The Exercise: Consistency and Intensity
While diet played a huge role in Corey’s weight loss, exercise was just as important in his journey. Initially, Corey found it challenging to be physically active due to his weight. However, as he lost pounds and his energy increased, he began to incorporate exercise into his routine. His workouts started slowly but gradually grew more intense.
Corey’s routine included a mix of strength training and cardio exercises. He began with walking and light strength training before moving on to more intense workouts. His focus was on building muscle mass, which not only helped him burn fat but also boosted his metabolism.
“I didn’t want to just lose weight—I wanted to build a stronger, leaner body,” he explained. “Strength training was key in helping me do that.”
Along with strength training, Corey incorporated cardio exercises such as swimming and cycling. These activities not only helped him shed fat but also improved his cardiovascular health. “Cardio was important for me because it helped me stay active and burn those extra calories,” he said.
By combining strength training with cardio, Corey created a balanced workout routine that helped him stay committed to his weight loss goals. His workouts didn’t just improve his physical appearance—they also improved his mental health and confidence.
The Mental and Emotional Growth: Overcoming Challenges
Losing weight isn’t just a physical journey—it’s a deeply emotional and mental process. Corey acknowledged that he had struggled with self-esteem and emotional eating in the past, often using food as a way to cope with stress or discomfort. However, he knew that in order to make lasting changes, he had to address these issues head-on.
One of the key elements in Corey’s mental transformation was his ability to stay patient and forgive himself for past mistakes. There were times when he struggled with temptation or didn’t meet his weight loss goals, but instead of letting those setbacks discourage him, Corey learned to see them as part of the process.
“I used to be really hard on myself when I slipped up,” he said. “But over time, I realized that weight loss isn’t linear. It’s about progress, not perfection.”
Corey also found solace in the support of his family and friends, who encouraged him throughout his journey. Their support helped him stay motivated, even when things got tough. “Having people around me who believed in me made all the difference,” he shared. “It kept me going when I wanted to quit.”
The Results: A Healthier, Happier Corey Harrison
By 2014, Corey Harrison had lost 192 pounds, dropping from 402 pounds to 210 pounds. His physical transformation was astonishing, but what was even more impressive was the mental and emotional growth that accompanied his weight loss.
“I feel like a new person,” Corey said, reflecting on his journey. “I have so much more energy, I feel more confident, and I’m just happier overall. This wasn’t just about losing weight—it was about changing my life.”
Corey’s weight loss journey not only helped him get healthier, but it also changed his approach to life and his career. He became more focused, driven, and positive, which had a ripple effect on his professional and personal life.
A Transformation Beyond the Physical
Corey Harrison’s weight loss story is a powerful reminder that true transformation is not just about shedding pounds—it’s about gaining strength, confidence, and a new perspective on life. By embracing a healthier lifestyle, focusing on self-discipline, and addressing emotional triggers, Corey was able to achieve lasting success.
His story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to make a change, whether it’s related to weight loss, health, or personal growth. As Corey himself said, “The journey is long, but it’s worth it. It’s not just about looking different—it’s about feeling different.” And in that feeling, Corey Harrison has truly found a new lease on life.
