I promised I would get back to writing in a few months and update my progress. So, I always tell people that everyone has their own journey and their own story. What motivated me and continues to motivate me may be entirely different from what gets you moving, but essentially that is what makes everyone’s journey so special. It’s a joy documenting my journey and inspiring others. I want to share my journey because I believe every healthy transformation can serve as a true inspirational tool for those individuals that need to make positive changes for their health as well as for those individuals that have already taken the step to improve their health and well-being.
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| My tread run Summary |
After a series of illnesses, I was fed up with the doctor prescribing high blood pressure medication and I was tired of taking them. I decided to lace up my running shoes and slowly but surely ran my way to a healthier weight. I have since cut down on calories and I exercise 5 times weekly, rewarding myself along the way with a new handbag, shoes or a workout gear for reaching targets, like doing 1 hour run and burning a total of 500 calories for every tread run. I have upped my cardio now to a speed of 9.5, Signed up for the first lady beyond zero campaign, 21 KM run and currently training to prepare for the marathon in March. I also keep a food journal, swapping chips for veggies along the way, and have since dropped 22Kgs in just about a year.
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| 2015 Pic (work in Progress) |
What are my gym routines? I spend 75% of my time at Cardio theatre. My routines are treadmill run, spinning, full body toning, cycling, and I have learned how to make healthier choices even at restaurants. I have also Cut out my alcohol intake (sweet wine has always been my weakness but am getting there) ice cream, excess sugar, and eating more fresh veggies. My message to others is, "Yes, you CAN do it! Trust me, we all have good days and bad days. Make the choice to become a better you for yourself and your loved ones. All you have to do is start. Ease yourself into it and don't do anything crazy or drastic. It's all about doing things that are sustainable for the long-term. Don't give up! If I can do it, anyone can. It is all about changing and creating new habits. I feel so much happier and healthier. I am much more active and I participate in events that I didn't think were possible.
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| Size 20 trouser I used to wear back in the days |
A few suggestions and tips I would like to offer to other people who are on this exciting weight loss journey are:
• Drink enough water. If you have a smart phone, download an app called "Water Your Body". It determines how much you need to drink based on your weight.
• Get moving! Any way you can, any time you can.
• Forget about your journey being about "losing weight" and FOCUS on long-term health. I believe this makes it easier to accept fluctuating weight on the scale.
• If you eat too much of something unhealthy then log it, deal with it, and MOVE ON. Decide to get back on track with the NEXT thing you eat and NOT the next day, or the next week.
• Eat fresh fruits and veggies. This will help ensure you get healthy nutrients and fibre your body needs.
• Get enough sleep.
• DON'T QUIT!
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| After Pic (2015 Work in Progress) |
Fear brought me to this point and habit keeps me here. I’m thankful for the wakeup call God gave me before it was too late! The word HYPERTENSIVE is no more in my medical file.
