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I began my journey at the age of 22. Up until that point I had always been around 15 stones, with no desire to eat healthily or try to lose weight. Of course I was unhappy with being the larger one amongst my friends but my love of food beat my desire to look good. However, one day in Febuary 2007, weighing 16 stone 8lbs, something inside me clicked and I just knew I was going to lose weight properly. I did try a soup diet for one day, but it was horrendous. So I saught the advice of my best friend, who is a qualified dietician, who gave me loads of advice about what foods to eat, what the correct portion sizes should look like, and simple changes to make to my diet. It was common sense really. So, with a lot of hard work, determination, and most importantly, patience, I started to lose weight. After a few months I started jogging. My father is athletic and has done a fair few marathons and so he trained me up to do my first 5K and then 5 mile event. After 2 years I lost 6 stones. I did it sensibly and slowly, meaning that the food and exercise choices I was making become a daily habit. I also joined a gym and participated in classes such as aerobics, spinning and boxing, alongside playing squash with my partner.

 

   Up until this point, I have never tried any diets, and I wouldn't say that I ever did diet, just changed my lifestyle. A diet is set up for failure. To really lose weight and keep it off you have to accept that there are no quick fixes. They only make you miserable and hungry. I still enjoy treats, but enjoy less of them less often. Weight loss shouldn't be prohibitive to keeping a social life.

 

      I now get such a buzz from exercise, which certainly does keep me motivated. People who I haven't seen for a while not recognising me also keeps the motivation levels high. My partner, family and friends have also been so supportive every step of the way, which really helps.

 

     I have now maintained my weight for 2 years and I'd like to lose another stone, but my ultimate goal is to stay slim for life, and to continually challenge and improve my fitness levels by entering events such as this one, the Blenheim Palace 10K. My life has completely changed. I have far more energy than I ever had, my confidence has dramatically improved, and I love shopping trips now! The feeling of being able to fit into clothes in every high street shop is fantastic. I could never go back to how I was as I was so unhealthy and greedy. The lifestyle changes I have made will hopefully stick with me for life!

 

      I would urge anyone who wanted to lead a healthier lifestyle to just do it. Believe in yourself, be patient, accept the setbacks that will naturally occur, and seek the help of friends and family. It is possible, it just takes time and a bit of effort. By losing this weight I have really helped my general health, but other people are unable to do this. Therefore I would be grateful if you could help me raise some funds for the British Heart Foundation, a very worthwhile course. Completing this 10K will be a challenge for me as it will be my longest run to date.

 

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