As I came off the pitch, breathless and aching, I realised that I wasn’t enjoying football like I used to. At 14st 10lbs, I was the biggest I’d ever been, and it was taking much longer to recover after matches. I was worried that my playing days might be coming to an end.
My weight had been creeping up since I met my boyfriend, when cosy nights in with takeaways and chocolates became the norm. It was affecting my confidence, and if we went out for dinner, I’d spend the whole time worrying that people were staring at me.
I’d been a Slimming World member before, so I knew all about the eating plan and how well it worked for me. I love that I can still have my favourite meals, like pulled pork or gammon with chips – I just make them the Slimming World way. The warm welcome I got in group instantly put me at ease, and back home, I switched my evening takeaways for home-made versions. I made going to group every week a priority, because the support really helped me to stay motivated and I enjoyed discovering new dishes, like cheeseburger pasta bake. Thankfully, the pounds quickly started to come off.
Losing 4st 5lbs has really boosted my performance on the pitch. When the new season started, my teammates were amazed to see me flying up and down the wing! It spurred me on to increase my fitness even more. I started by jogging around my local park and, slowly, I increased my distances – until I was clocking up 13 miles each time! I never thought I’d say this, but I genuinely love running now. I just stick my headphones on, tune into the Slimming World Podcast, and off I go.
As my fitness levels soared, my confidence grew too – I even wore a bikini on holiday this year! My life has changed so much, and I know I have many more football seasons to look forward to.
Increase your activity, at your own pace
Whether you’re already active or you’re looking for support to get started, Slimming World’s physical activity programme meets you where you are right now. As a member, you’ll also enjoy access to our full get-fit tool kit, which includes:
- expert support to help you recognise then overcome any personal barriers
- more than 60 fun, easy-to-follow activity videos and a series of guided walking podcasts
- Body Magic awards to celebrate your progress
- fitness quizzes and articles, including exercise guides and activity ideas
- member-exclusive podcasts to listen to on the go
- a handy online tracker to plan and record your activity
If you’re planning to start a new exercise programme, we recommend you check with your GP first – especially if you have an existing health condition, such as high blood pressure, diabetes or asthma. If you’re pregnant, check the suitability of the exercise with your midwife.