"I've experienced an overwhelming shift in both body and mind"
There are many benefits I've felt on my WW journey so far. I was unaware of these benefits when I first embarked on this wonderful and transforming endeavour of self-discovery and fulfilment.
My WW journey started in September 2018. At the time, I had no idea of the profound impact it would have on me, particularly the mental and physical transformation I would go through. It's definitely changed my life for the better.
Prior to joining the programme I thought life was great: I had the best family & friends, a supportive partner and a great job, so what was I missing?! I didn’t actually realise I was missing anything until joining the WW programme. Since losing weight and living a healthier lifestyle, I've experienced this overwhelmingly positive shift in both body and mind. My confidence has soared and I believe in myself much more than I did.
"Before joining WW, I was at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes"
Before I found WW, I had high blood pressure, high cholesterol, an alarming BMI reading and was at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes due to my weight and lifestyle. These readings at a medical appointment shocked me. At the risk of sounding like a cliché, if I knew then what I know now, I would’ve been motivated to make changes sooner. I put myself at greater risk by overlooking so much when it came to my overall wellbeing.
I conformed to age-old cultural male attitudes and stereotypes. I grew up believing that men must not talk openly about deep-rooted issues such as weight and body image. Luckily, I'm part of a generation that is now challenging this archaic notion as we make conscious positive strides to improve ourselves both as individuals and in society. The health implications that arise from being overweight are equally harmful to men and women, but for some reason they have been treated or thought of differently in the past.
Men are not often associated with programmes such as WW, but there are lots of us who have found success on the programme. What I've found in the WW community is that we all go through things, and we can support each other through the good and the bad.
Find out if you're at risk for Type 2 diabetes
Before starting my journey, I weighed nearly 18st, but was always a very active person and felt there were no issues with my weight. I was happy in myself, confident, and pretty content with the way things were. However looking back now, I know deep down I struggled with my addiction to junk food and portion control. I also did not address the deep discomfort I had with my clothes size. I often avoided shopping for new things because the things I liked did not come in my size in some of my favourite shops.
"WW gives you the tools and knowledge to commit"
The WW weight-loss programme offers you so much, and it's so flexible that it can be tailored to fit anyone's lifestyle. And I mean literally anyone! I've learnt a lot about myself along the way, and the priceless knowledge I have obtained about the effects food nutrition has on me both physically and mentally is powerful beyond measure. At the heart of any success is commitment, and you have to be committed to building the best version of yourself using the tools and knowledge that WW gives you.
Exercise and moving more is very much a part of the WW programme, in addition to the food and nutrition element. There's so much knowledge and support on offer, it would be extremely hard not to find something that works for you. The programme is simple to follow and has an easy-to-use app, which is great, not to mention the amazing Coaches who make you feel special. You learn to do things your way and at your own pace whether it be yoga, running, walking or meditation for your mental wellbeing. You can absolutely find what you’re looking for on the WW app.
"I will continue to strive for more than just weight loss"
I've lost more than 5st since the start of my WW journey, have been maintaining now for the last six months, and have completely transformed my body and my mindset. I feel great! As well as significantly reducing my exposure to weight-related health risks, I've also learnt some lifelong lessons and have experienced an overwhelmingly positive health shift in my body, mind and soul. But my journey doesn’t end here. I will continue to strive for more than just weight loss.
Believe me when I say your journey starts here with WW. What are you waiting for?