If you’ve ever tried it yourself, you’ll know losing weight can prove quite the challenge. Denying yourself your favourite foods paired with committing yourself to a strict exercise routine isn’t many people’s idea of fun. However, Jemma Freeman persevered past these struggles and achieved a remarkable eight stone weight loss.
After a long-time battle with her weight, Jemma was inspired to make a change.
“At my yearly thyroid check the doctor told me I was big enough to qualify for a gastric band and was running the risk of becoming diabetic. Although this seemed like a good solution, I didn’t want to have surgery for something I could do myself.”
Teaming up with a friend, Jemma joined Slimming World and devoted herself to the diet plan.
“This included low fat food, lean meat, as much fruit and vegetables as I could stomach and made all my own sauces and soups from scratch. Unlike many people on Slimming World who would max out “syns” each day I would not to help maximise my weight loss.”
Despite not being keen on exercise, Jemma managed to dedicate herself to seven months of it. Jemma began with a high intensity work out three times a week for the first 3 months then moved on to swimming and gym sessions three times a week.
Jemma then continued with her weight loss, seeing results solely from her healthy eating-habits. Even though it is clear Jemma had impressive will power sticking to her diet, it doesn’t mean it was always easy.
“I struggled everyday with cravings for fatty food and chocolate and think I will continue to do so."
To ensure she remained motivated, Jemma would purchase the 6-week countdown at Slimming World. Spurred on by her determination not to waste money, it helped her through these testing times.
"Set a goal, no matter how ridiculous."
In just one year, Jemma had accomplished losing seven stone. Even though the final stone was the hardest, she persisted and another stone was shredded four months later. The positive impact on her physical health came as a welcomed reward.
“Less chafing and I would get out of breath very easily, suffered heartburn horrendously and was often lethargic. As I began to lose weight all of these areas improved, and I am now a dog walker and can easily walk for a few hours a day. Before losing the weight, I was always uncomfortable in clothes and struggled to buy things that would fit. Now I can shop in more places, not just specialist shops.”
The benefits didn’t stop there either. It has helped the whole household learn more about healthy foods.
Jemma shared her insight on how best to thrive with weight loss.
“Set a goal, no matter how ridiculous. Mine was 8 stone and people laughed at me, but I managed to surpass it.
Don’t reward yourself for sticking to a plan and losing weight with food. So many classes I have attended people would do that and it was counterproductive. I instead would choose to reward myself every time I lost a significant amount with new clothes or makeup.
Explain to others it’s important to you and ask them not to tempt you with nights off or just one take away. My method was to be strict and stick with it then when you reach your target you can re-assess and have treats occasionally then.”
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