It’s the London Marathon on Sunday 27th April, and as that colourful crowd of runners streams over the capital’s iconic Tower Bridge, you might just spot some of our amazing Slimming World team.
Chelsea Bradwick, 26, has lost 4st 2½lbs (26.5kg) with Slimming World, and will be running to raise money for Alzheimer’s Research UK.
“I’ve always struggled with my weight and was never interested in being active. When I look back at how life was when I was at my heaviest, I can see how truly unhappy I was.
I was very self-conscious and would often miss out on socialising with friends and family because of my lack of confidence.
I’ll never forget the day a work colleague took a picture of me and posted it on social media. As soon as I saw the photo, I cried. I couldn’t believe how big I’d got, and I knew then that I had to make a change. I wanted to feel better about myself, but also to improve my health, as my GP told me I had fatty liver disease and prediabetes.
So, I joined Slimming World, and attending my local group each week has been such an important part of my weight loss success. My Consultant, Michelle, is always there to support and encourage me, no matter what. Whether it’s been a good or not so great week, I still walk through those doors and receive the same support. The other members are so inspiring, and seeing them achieve their goals and get their Body Magic awards keeps me motivated on my own journey.
One of the biggest differences I’ve noticed since joining Slimming World is in my food choices. With the flexible eating plan, I’ve been able to recreate my favourite meals and still lose weight. My go-to dish is homemade diet cola chicken and rice.
Before, I wasn’t active at all. I’d be sat down at work all day and would do the same when I got home. But Slimming World’s approach to activity showed me that I just needed to find the right exercise to suit me. Once I started to increase my fitness levels, I got hooked on running. Now, I can hardly believe that I’ve completed three half marathons! I enjoy working towards my next goal and the feeling of being active.
I can’t wait to run the famous London Marathon in April, as part of the Slimming World marathon team. I’m taking on the challenge in aid of Alzheimer’s Research UK, a charity close to my heart as both my grandfather and my partner’s grandfather are living with Alzheimer’s. I know how important raising money and awareness for the charity is, and the work it does can be life-changing for the families of those diagnosed.”
Chelsea attends the Canolfan Teulu Seren Fach Slimming World group in Mountain Ash, Wales, run by Consultant Michelle Bowen.
You can find Chelsea’s fundraising page here.
If you’re feeling inspired to give running a go, you’ll find a step-by-step training plan on our exclusive member website and app. Start today and you could join us running Race for Life this summer!
Weight loss will vary according to your individual circumstances and how much weight you have to lose.