It really IS worth it
Amanda’s passions in life are her two disabled children and dancing. Staying fit is really important to Amanda, because it allows her to keep dancing and it also gives her the energy to take her son to his exercise classes. When Amanda found her weight was impacting on her mobility, she decided to take action. She joined our online plan and lost 3 stone 5 lbs, 4 dress sizes and 8 inches from her waist.
Amanda describes the difference losing weight made to her…
Have you tried any other diets?
I have done bits and pieces through the gym. They were partially successful, but nothing stuck.
Why did you decide to join us?
I felt really horrible. I do a lot of dancing and I was getting joint pain and beginning to think I’d have to give up. I take my son to activities such as the gym, swimming, rollerskating, trampolining and all kinds of dancing. If I couldn’t join in he was in danger of not being able to access the things he enjoys. I am the children’s sole carer – if I’m not fit and able, they miss out and that’s not fair.
Was your weight causing you any other problems?
My self-confidence was a huge issue.
Tell us about your diet before you joined us?
I guess it’s what we all know, but don’t put into practice….eating the five a day, eating enough food, drinking enough. To begin with I struggled to fit everything in and have never, ever felt hungry. I don’t calorie check or weigh everything anymore, but I have learnt enough to be able to make judgement calls.
What difference has losing weight made to you?
I feel more ME, if that makes sense. I don’t have to hide or stop doing what I love. The delights of looking for size 8 or 10 clothing is astounding. I feel so happy, sexy and more confident. I love that I have more energy – I dance for four hours on a Sunday and it’s a lot easier on the feet.
How have your family and friends reacted to your weight loss?
My boyfriend is ecstatic. He always said he would love me fat or slim – but I love me thin, and he loves that I’m happy.
Do you feel confident about maintaining your loss?
I have signed up for the next year at least. Even though I don’t need to calorie check anymore, I still want access to the recipes and I want to be able to check things online when I need to. I need the support network and discipline of weighing in each week.
Have you any other tips you would like to give?
Exactly what it says on the tin. The routine of recording your weight and using the diet plans brought it home that it’s not actually rocket science. If you follow the menus, put in the effort; it will happen. And it really is worth it.
