Working mum Susanne reaches her goals
Susanne, a primary school teacher and mum to 2 year old daughter, piled on the weight after her pregnancy and found it very difficult to lose it while she concentrated on her family and her career. Like many working mums she found very little time for herself but got to a point where she was so unhappy and knew things had to change. After Christmas 2010 she signed up to our online plan and has since lost 3 stone. Here is her story…
How long have you been with us?
Since January 2011
What plan did you follow?
I tried a few and changed along the way. I was constantly editing the menu too so I could be flexible and dictate my own menu.
Have you previously tried any other diets?
I lost weight to get married, but just did my own thing. The different plans have helped me to focus post-baby as I am back at work full-time and needed the guidance.
What weight and clothes size were you before you joined us, and what is your current weight and clothes size?
I was a size 16, weighing 12st 7lb, and am now a size 10 weighing 9st 7lb.
Did you lose any inches?
Yes, masses, but never officially measured. I could just tell by how my clothes felt and the dress sizes I dropped.
What made you decide to join us?
I had lost weight to get married, got pregnant soon after getting married and put on 3 stone. I went back to work full time when my daughter was 6 months, due to financial circumstances and have been working hard to further myself professionally. It took until Christmas 2010 to decide that I was so unhappy with my weight that I needed to do something about it.
What part has exercise played in helping you to lose weight?
It has been massive – I rejoined my local gym and discovered ‘Zumba’ – my Zumba teacher Lisa is amazing! I try to go 3 times a week, plus once a week at the gym, and where possible I go to the gym if Zumba is not possible, so I do try to do 3-4 lots of exercise a week!
Was your weight causing you any problems?
I was less self-confident definitely. Hated being naked, dreaded the summer coming, swimming etc.
What difference has losing weight made to you?
I feel amazing!!! I like the fact that I am a size 12, I carry myself more confidently. Friends and family are commenting. I feel fab! I can wear the clothes I like and I can look in the mirror – for the first time in years!
Have you enjoyed your plans?
I found it a really good focal point for my week. Even if weekends were a bit more naughty, food or drink-wise, it helped me to re-focus come Monday and keep a check on what I ate and drank. I have a totally different way of thinking about food and drink now.
Tell us about your diet before you joined us, and how has your diet changed as a result?
I am far more aware of the calorific content of food and drink, which makes me think twice before indulging, or makes me make sure I make up for over-doing it afterwards. I enjoy the regular exercise, which has also become a social thing with friends. I used to just eat, drink and then moan about how I felt! Now I realise it’s my responsibility to be sensible and maintain.
How have your family and friends reacted to your weight loss?
They have all been really positive and supportive. Lots of lovely comments!!
How do you feel about your weight loss?
I am so proud of myself, I have proved how focused and disciplined I can be. I feel great! I am much more confident about my figure and wearing tight-fitting clothes!
Do you feel confident about maintaining your weight loss?
Yes – although I will be hoping to have another baby in a year or two, but now I think I will choose to lose the weight quicker afterwards, and I know I can do it!
Any other information you would like to give?
I think the only true way to lose weight is through being careful with what you eat and exercising regularly. Being the weight you want to be is about changing the way you think – and hard work! But it’s worth it!!
