I’d spent most of my life being overweight, until 6 years ago I “discovered” sport 6 years ago. This did wonders for my figure and it fast became a favourite pastime. My eating, though, had lots of room for improvement.

I was never one to indulge in fast food or alcohol. Instead, my downfall was portion sizes and picking all day long.

It was after the birth of my second son, that I realized that I could no longer rely on physical activity alone to keep the weight off. As a mother, I no longer had the luxury of spending hours on the treadmill to create the calorie deficit. I really needed to redevelop good eating habits. This dose of reality was further compounded when I fractured my rib. Physical activity was not possible.

Choice of 4 Tracksuits

As I steadily gained weight as my self-esteem was being further eroded. I resorted to wearing tracksuits as I refused to wear my old size 16 jeans. Every morning I’d get up and pretty much had a choice of four tracksuits to wear. I wanted to change, but needed someone to show me how.

I found out about Ideal Bodies Online through the Womens, Health and Fitness magazines.

The IBO web site was most impressive, especially the numerous “after” photos of proud clients. I was even further impressed by the quick response by Sue after I made my initial enquiry. Unlike other online fitness trainers, I felt that this had the most support for it’s members. The regular feedback with the option of a mentor was what I was looking for. It didn’t take long before I was set up with a food and exercise plan and a mentor, Lisa.  From Week 1 to week 12, Sue and her staff displayed genuine concern and utmost professionalism.

I was made to feel free to be able to ask any query no matter how small they seemed.

Regularly Read The Forums

The IBO website became my life-line. I regularly read the forum, library and recipes, they were all a wealth of inspiration and ideas. It was great to meet so many other women that were on the same “journey” as me. The support,  stories, problems and triumphs shared by them definitely helped me get through the weeks.

The biggest hurdle I faced was not having to rely on others in my life for support. In the past I felt let down and, being an emotional eater, would turn to food. I soon learnt to change my attitude and that I was to do this for me.

There were also a few weeks when my progressed plateaude. While this was disheartening, I tried to stay positive and continue with the plan, having faith that it would all come together eventually. Towards the end, I was hesitant about getting the photo professionally taken. I received nothing but encouragement.

How right they were, the photo shoot was the best day ever. For the first time ever I had no hesitation posing in front of others in just a bikini. I was brimming with pride!

I No Longer Wear Tracksuits!

Since finishing, I no longer wear my tracksuits. Instead my wardrobe is fast filling with clothes from the current season. I now pay more attention to what others are wearing whereas in the past I did my best to ignore it as I felt it wouldn’t look any good on me. I have had a new cut and colour in my hair. I’ve updated all of my make-up. Most importantly changed my outlook on life. I have more pride and confidence in myself and am now comfortable with who I am. I have learnt how to change my body without negative affects on my metabolism.

I am no longer a slave to the treadmill but am now able to find a balance and enjoy life.

Tips:

1.    Go to bed with a positive thought that was the highlight of the day. For example, someone may have given you a compliment,  lifted heavier weights at training, or even being strong and saying “no” to treats.

2.    Only eat at designated meal times. This helps to eliminate snacking and picking, it all adds up and can sabotage any weight loss plan.

3.    To help stay focused, keep a daily diary of your food intake, training and feelings. It will help you to reflect on the day happenings. If things didn’t go to plan, jot down ways to overcome the same problem should it arise again. It’s also great to look back and see how far you really have come.

4.    Should you miss a workout or stray off your eating plan, get back on track as soon as possible, eg the very next meal. This is a lifelong change and the sooner you learn to “get back on board” the better.

5.    Drink at least 3 litres of water. Your body can’t perform it’s best when it’s in a dehydrated state. Your skin will glow!

Favourite Recipe:

Chicken Patties with low fat Tzatziki Dip

Supplements Used:

MRM products.

I used the Whey Pumped Chocolate and Response Choc Caramel Fudge Bar which is low in carbs and high in protein.

Not only did I find these products reasonably priced, they tasted so great that it eliminated any cravings for chocolate or sugar.

This was valuable as it helped me to stick to the plan as close as possible.