Sponsored content: paid for by Slimming World.
Kym Rees shares her personal story in her own words. Copy and photographs supplied and approved by Slimming World.
"For the first time in years, losing weight didn't feel like a punishment."
Like so many people, I'd struggled with my weight for most of my life. I'd tried different diets over the years and would often lose weight, only to find myself back where I'd started when life became busy or the plan felt too difficult to maintain.
Over time, a combination of health challenges and some difficult personal experiences left me feeling disconnected from my health and wellbeing. Food often became a source of comfort and, little by little, my confidence and fitness began to suffer.
The moment things really changed came after I took part in a Race for Life 5K to support a close friend. I completed the course and felt incredibly proud, but I was shocked by how long it took me to recover afterwards. It made me realise that I didn't just want to lose weight, I wanted to feel healthier, fitter and more confident in myself again.
I knew I needed support to make lasting changes, so I searched for my nearest Slimming World group. As luck would have it, there was a group meeting that very evening. I took a deep breath, walked through the door and that decision turned out to be one of the best I've ever made.
That first evening after group, I went home and made a list of all the foods I loved. Page after page, I realised something I hadn't expected... I could still enjoy the foods I loved while losing weight.
I planned my meals for the week, followed the plan as best I could and returned to group feeling hopeful. When I stepped on the scales and discovered I'd lost 6½lb in my first week, I could hardly believe it. The following week I lost another 5lb.
For the first time in years, losing weight didn't feel like a punishment. I was enjoying cooking, trying new recipes and sharing meals with my family. Instead of feeling deprived, I felt excited about what I could eat.
Like many people, I eventually hit a challenging patch where my weight loss slowed. In the past, that's the point where I would have given up and watched the weight creep back on. This time was different.
I kept coming to group, shared how I was feeling and discovered the real power of Slimming World. The support, encouragement and practical advice from my Consultant and fellow members helped me find my way through. They believed in me when my confidence wobbled, and little by little the weight started coming off again.
Today I've lost almost 4½ stone, my blood pressure has improved, I no longer get out of breath climbing the stairs and I'm even sleeping better.
And next year, I'll be returning to Race for Life.
This time, I won't be walking it.
I'll be running it.
This experience has changed my life and inspired me to become a Consultant myself. I want to help other people discover the same support, understanding and belief that had helped me succeed.
I will be launching my group on Monday, 12th October in Polesworth at 5.30pm & 7pm.
Our address is:
The Memorial Hall (Opposite the Red Lion)
Bridge Street
Polesworth
Warwickshire,
B78 1DT
Find a group through the Slimming World group finder.