An Introduction to My Weight Loss Journey

Weight Loss Journey Introduction

Hello, and welcome to the start of my weight loss journey! Like many, I’ve had my fair share of ups, downs, and outright battles with the scales. It’s been a ride, filled with some interesting detours, motivational boosts, and maybe a few too many indulgent treats along the way. So, if you’re curious about losing weight, starting a fitness journey, or just here to cheer me on from Brighton (or wherever you’re reading from), I hope my story resonates with you. Let’s dive into how I got here.

The Early Days: Slimming World, Gym Memberships, and My Sweet Tooth

It all began in 2007 when I moved to Norfolk with my family, I was away from my friends, sailing, swimming in the sea, riding my bike around the island. I knew nobody, the people I worked with were all 40+ so I didn’t build any out of work relationships, I started feeling very isolated and started gaining weight. 

After about a year, I joined my first Slimming World group. For a while, I was managing to keep things in check, working off some pounds here and there. But as the years went by, maintaining a healthy weight felt like a game of hide and seek—I’d lose a bit, and then, just as quickly, it would find its way back. I was stuck in a cycle. I’d rejoin Slimming World, joined a gym for a few months, and then fall back into old habits. Sound familiar? I was the classic example of “all or nothing”—I’d be laser-focused, then suddenly give up the routine, only to repeat it all over again. 

From about age 25 to 30 I managed to maintain a fairly stable weight, going up or down within a range of about a stone.

The Pandemic Pounds: Working From Home and Mindless Eating

Lockdown was a real struggle for me, I was working for myself and whilst other businesses were getting support, as a fairly new player, I didn’t qualify, which meant I had to go out and hunt for the pennies; it was a really stressful time, and I was working very long hours, I’d start working at 7am and wouldn’t finish until gone 10pm. This lack of time for myself meant I was one of Deliveroo’s most loyal customers, ordering sometimes three times a day just to avoid leaving my desk. My diet consisted of convenience foods, and my fridge was a shrine to ready meals. 

Without even realising it, my weight kept creeping up; although with little exercise and probably in excess of 3000 calories per day, it was only to be expected, but I wasn’t counting.

Moving to Brighton was supposed to be a fresh start, but with so many delicious restaurants and takeaways around, my sweet tooth was in heaven. I spent more time enjoying the local food scene than taking care of myself, leading to even more weight gain.

The Commuter’s Curse & Unhappy in My Job

When I started a new job in Eastbourne, I faced a fairly long daily commute from Brighton to a job I didn’t really enjoy. I’d spend two hours in the car each day, which meant I was sedentary for 10 hours, five days a week. And to top it off, there was an incredible bakery right across from my office. The cakes were divine, and those sandwiches? Let’s just say they weren’t exactly helping my waistline. With a tiring job and a carb-loaded diet, I was stuck in an unhealthy routine.

Whilst I made some attempts, I don’t think I was in the right headspace, I moved to Norfolk and knew nobody, but over time made some great friends, but then moved away from them all to Brighton to nobody, so again started to feel isolated and lonely. I realise that when I’m stressed or unhappy I comfort eat; when I’m happy I eat too, but am more aware and conscious of what I’m putting in my mouth.

A new job opportunity came my way right at the end of 2022, literally a 15 minute walk from my flat, I started in the January right after the festive break; and within a few weeks after the honeymoon period wore off, I knew I had definitely made the right choice, I was working in a place that valued me, where I felt comfortable, happy and confident. This was a real turning point. I did join a gym that summer, but it didn’t last, I soon started making excuses not to go, and what small success I had made with my super restrictive diet, and intense and unsustainable gym routine quickly was undone.

Making the Decision: Getting Serious About Health and Weight Loss

Towards the end of 2023, I was the heaviest I have ever been, just over 19 stone, I knew something had to change. I was tired of feeling sluggish and uncomfortable in my own skin. Plus, I was turning 34, and whilst I hadn’t been diagnosed with any medical conditions, I know that with my age, weight and waistline the potential health risks were much greater and enough to wake me up. I wanted to be fit, healthy, and confident in myself. So, I joined a local gym and started learning more about nutrition and how my body responds to different foods.

A friend from work was also on a weight loss and fitness journey, so we decided to become gym buddies which really helped keep me motivated. We began attending classes, including one notorious HIIT session with a coach named Alfie who runs Vertical Personal Training in Hove. Alfie’s friendly encouragement and knack for modifying exercises to match my fitness level and ability were exactly what I needed. It wasn’t easy, and at first, I despised those workouts. But with time, I actually started to enjoy them, especially when I started seeing results.

Falling Off the Weight Loss Wagon

Eventually, I joined Soho House’s Brighton Beach House, which had a great gym. But I’ll be honest—it was way too easy to make excuses. The gym was smaller, parking was a hassle, and I’d convince myself I could skip “just this once.” Soon, “just this once” turned into weeks of missed workouts, and by summer, I’d undone much of my progress. Between trips to Norfolk, family visits, and food-centred gatherings, my weight crept back up. Funny though, I never struggled to park or find it difficult getting there when it was for a social event.

A New Mindset: Starting Fresh in August 2024

Come August 2024, I was tired of feeling self-conscious and wanted to feel healthier. Watching others enjoy the pool at Soho House sipping cocktails, I realised I was missing out because of my own insecurities. I started researching healthier eating habits and worked to break up with sugary treats and processed foods. My trusty Apple Watch became my accountability buddy, and I focused on closing those rings each day.

Slowly but surely, I was back at the gym at Soho House and walking more, enjoying the sensation and feeling after exercise. I haven’t completely cut out indulgences, but I was making better choices. With each passing week, I’ve found myself craving sweets less, and my energy levels soared. I even noticed that I could spring up from the floor without needing to support myself—a small victory that felt huge to me!

Where I’m Headed: Setting Goals for a Healthy Future

As of now, I’ve shed just under three stone, but the journey is far from over. I’m not viewing this as a diet; it’s a sustainable lifestyle change. I’m excited to explore the South Downs, go on long hikes, and maybe even give tennis or volleyball a try in 2025. I’m building a routine I can stick to, one that allows me to indulge now and then without undoing all my hard work.

So, that’s where I am today. If you’re on a similar journey, know that you’re not alone. I’ll continue to share my progress, some of my favourite healthy recipes, and the inevitable ups and downs along the way. Thank you for reading, and here’s to living our healthiest lives!

Join Me!

Are you on a similar journey, or do you have any tips for staying on track? Got a great healthy recipe or a workout routine that keeps you motivated? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s support each other, leave a comment below.