Cole Prochaska, from South Carolina, captured widespread attention for his remarkable 400-pound weight loss, sharing his transformation journey online and inspiring thousands of followers. In a 2023 interview with TODAY, Prochaska revealed that he once weighed 585 pounds—the maximum his scale could display and roughly the combined weight of three average adult men.
Determined to reclaim his health, Cole committed to a complete lifestyle overhaul, focusing on nutrition, exercise, and sustainable daily habits. Rather than opting for surgical interventions, he relied on consistent, disciplined changes to his routine, demonstrating that dramatic weight loss is possible through dedication and persistence.
Throughout his journey, Prochaska documented his progress online, sharing candid updates, challenges, and successes. His story quickly resonated with a global audience, many of whom saw him as a source of motivation and proof that even seemingly impossible goals can be achieved.
Beyond the physical transformation, Cole emphasized the mental and emotional impact of his weight loss. He spoke openly about building confidence, improving mobility, and reshaping his mindset, showing that health is more than just a number on the scale. Cole Prochaska’s journey is a powerful reminder that with commitment and perseverance, life-changing transformations—like his 400-pound weight loss—are achievable for anyone willing to put in the work.
It is estimated that Prochaska once consumed around 5,000 calories per day. Reflecting on that period in a 2023 interview with TODAY, he stated,
“I felt pretty bad. I would always put on a happy exterior because that’s what a lot of big people do. But I was a pretty lonely person. You don’t want to go to anything because you don’t want to have to worry about fitting in the chairs and worry about having to walk very far, what you’re going to wear.”
Prochaska eventually adopted a healthier lifestyle, incorporating daily walks of at least 10,000 steps, weightlifting at the gym three times a week, and a protein-rich, balanced diet. After two years of consistent effort—without using weight-loss medications or undergoing surgery—he successfully reduced his weight to around 226 pounds, a level he has maintained since.
Although Cole Prochaska reports that he has never felt better following his 400-pound weight loss, the dramatic transformation left him with a significant amount of loose skin, which has caused some personal insecurity. In 2023, he launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for surgery to remove the excess skin, aiming to feel more comfortable in his own body and complete his journey.
To inspire others and embrace his progress, Prochaska began posting shirtless photos of himself online, despite initial hesitation. Sharing these images allowed him to confront his insecurities while demonstrating the realities of extreme weight loss. His candid approach resonated with followers, many of whom praised his honesty and dedication, highlighting the emotional challenges that often accompany physical transformation.
Reflecting on the decision in an interview with TODAY, Prochaska explained, “I needed to show everybody all the skin I have and how far I’ve come and just embrace it. And that’s what I did.” By openly sharing both the triumphs and struggles of his journey, Cole not only celebrates his incredible progress but also encourages others to pursue their own health goals without shame or fear. His story is a powerful reminder that true transformation encompasses both the physical and emotional aspects of change.
As of 2024, Cole Prochaska’s GoFundMe campaign has raised over $75,000 from more than 2,000 contributors, reflecting widespread support for his journey. He continues to share regular updates on Instagram, offering followers a candid look at his progress and the challenges he still faces. Prochaska is working to raise a total of $100,000 to cover the costs of multiple surgeries needed to remove excess skin following his 400-pound weight loss. His transparency and dedication have inspired countless people, highlighting both the triumphs and ongoing realities of extreme weight loss transformations.
