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Jo Ellis interviews Catherine, a local lady, about her inspirational story….
In her youth, Catherine was a keen swimmer and dancer and was very slim, but fast-forward 20 years and various factors had led to a large weight gain. Catherine was now a size 24-26, and found any physical activity difficult. Two years ago, aged 42, she started on a weight-loss mission by improving her diet with the help of a slimming group in Tavistock. As the weight came off, she became more physically able and found that she began to enjoy exercise again.
What made you decide to start exercising more?
C: After I lost the first two stone, I felt more physically able and began walking more - to the shops, visiting my parents, trying to leave the car at home. I felt physically and mentally better for it so then I decided to start swimming again.
My Dad became ill and I began to think ahead to my own old-age and how I needed to do more now to help prevent ill-health in my future. A friend recommended a dancing exercise class that she thought I would like. I was really nervous and stood at the back - but I loved it!
Did you feel self-conscious when you started exercising again?
C: I never felt self-conscious in the pool because once you're in no-one can see you. Also, there are all different ages, shapes and sizes of people using the pool so I felt fine. When I started the fitness classes, I worried about standing out so I covered up and stayed at the back until I felt more confident. But again, there were people of all ages, sizes and abilities and the instructors were great so it never put me off.
How does your new exercise habit make you feel physically and mentally during and post-exercise?
C: Physically, I feel my body loosen up when I get started and then I get hot and sweaty. Afterwards, I feel tired but also energised and my body feels ready for anything!
Mentally, I might not always feel like doing it, but one hour later I do feel great! Afterwards I’m buzzing and feel proud for achieving something physically difficult.
How has your body changed since you started losing weight and exercising?
C: My shape has changed completely. I have legs again, and a waist! Although the weight loss has had a big impact on the way my body looks, exercising has definitely tightened and toned everything. I can also feel that I have muscles in my arms.
What can you achieve physically that you couldn’t do before?
My first fitness goal was to be able to run around with the children. Two years ago I struggled to walk them to school, now I do a 5k run most weeks and my husband and 8-year-old son join in too. My second goal was to be able to do sit ups. I managed that last year at an exercise class and I was thrilled.
What are you better able to do in normal life?
C: I can lift and carry things more easily, so I can carry groceries without pain. Running up and down the stairs is now easy so I no longer ask the children to go and get things for me. I’m now involved with physical activities with my family. Last year on his 8th birthday, I played football with my son for the first time.
I don’t need to look at a chair and worry whether I can fit in it and last summer I went on the ghost train ride with my daughter, which I couldn’t have done before. By losing weight and improving my fitness I’ve been able to get fully involved in family life again.
What would you say to sedentary people that think they are too old/heavy/out of condition to start exercising?
C: Looking back to where I was, I still can’t believe what I’ve managed to achieve, it’s like I’ve reversed the clock and become 20 years younger. We all have barriers to overcome but if I can do it, anyone can.
Jo Ellis
Mojo Fitness Tavistock
Personal Training and Weight Loss Support