Our research shows that joining a Slimming World group can support your weight loss success.
Our programme, based on over 50 years of experience, expertise and science, is used by the NHS to help people achieve real and lasting weight loss. We’re proud to continue our partnership with Public Health England’s Better Health campaign by offering a discount on Slimming World membership, plus six weeks for the price of five when you buy a six-week Countdown course.
Find out how you can take up our Better Health offer at the bottom of this post.
To inspire you to discover new healthy habits and achieve lifelong weight loss success, we’re also sharing the story of Sam Long, who’s lost 2½st so far at Sophie’s Slimming World group in London and reduced her risk of developing type 2 diabetes…
Finding my motivation
Sitting opposite my GP in the doctor’s surgery, I was speechless. I’d just found out that I was at very high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and now the doctor was telling me my weight was a contributing factor. I’d been in denial about my size for a long time. Although I struggled to find clothes I liked that would fit me and couldn’t climb a flight of stairs without needing to stop for a breather, I couldn’t see a way out, so I pushed any worries to the back of my mind. Now, though, I realised my weight was seriously impacting my health. Later, when a friend told me about the Public Health England Better Health offer for discounted Slimming World membership, I knew I had to give it a chance.
Getting support
I’d been dieting on and off for years, each time turning to calorie counting. I’d soon tire of keeping track, then eventually I’d stop losing weight altogether and, without support, my motivation to slim would slip away. As soon as I walked through the doors of Sophie’s Slimming World group, I realised it was something completely different. I had an incredibly warm welcome from all the other members, and the support and advice I was given in group really helped me to get to grips with Food Optimising.
Every week I learned something new. Like how to use any slip-ups to discover more about myself, rather than feel guilty. Now, if I do go off track at any point, I don’t give myself a hard time. I’ll make a Food Optimising meal and be right back on track again. My mindset around weight loss has changed completely. When we went back into lockdown in January, I carried on checking in with my fellow members in our virtual group sessions. And, as we’ve supported one another through the challenges of lockdown, we’ve become closer than ever before.
MORE ON THE BLOG: Discover how Karen Darler lost 7st
Discovering the power of planning
At my heaviest, I never planned my meals. I’d often feel so exhausted after a long day on my feet working as a rehabilitation assistant that I’d just grab the first thing I saw – which was usually a frozen ready meal or something from the takeaways I passed on my way home. When I started Food Optimising, I realised that I needed to start cooking from scratch, and that meant making a plan. Every week, I’d write out the recipes I wanted to try and set aside time to batch cook meals so that I always had a healthy, filling meal ready in a few minutes when I got home. Now I can make everything from chilli con carne with rice to a Slimming World curry, and I’ve never once felt hungry.
What I eat in a day as a Slimming World member
Breakfast: Overnight oats with blueberries
Lunch: Slimming World pasta bake
Dinner: Chicken chow mein
Snacks: Apples, bananas, satsumas and a Slimming World Hi-fi bar
Embracing activity
As the weight started to come off, I felt more energetic than I had in years and I was inspired to become more active. I used to enjoy swimming because it was easier on my joints – plus I felt more comfortable knowing that no one could see me underneath the water! When pools closed due to the pandemic, I decided to give running a try. Although I felt nervous at the thought of people looking at me as I ran down the street, once I got moving I quickly realised that no one was interested in what I was doing. Gradually my confidence increased, and so did my fitness. Now I can run more than 5K and I’ve even invested in a pair of bright leggings! As soon as lockdown restrictions allow, I’d like to sign up to a Race for Life in memory of my mum, who I lost to cancer in 2016.
MORE ON THE BLOG: Find out how Ashli Sterling found a passion for activity
Celebrating my success
I’ve lost 2st 2½lbs since joining Slimming World, and already life is completely different. My feet don’t hurt as much after a long day at work, and I can climb a flight of stairs with ease. I’ve also dropped two dress sizes and my uniform is much more comfortable. My friends and family have showered me with compliments about my weight loss, and I can’t wait for lockdown restrictions to ease more so that I can get glammed-up and go out feeling fabulous.
Best of all, my health has improved dramatically, and I’ve reduced my risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Although I’m still on my weight loss journey, thanks to the support of my Consultant and group, I’m confident I’ll get to target and keep this healthy lifestyle for good. I’ve got my life back and I couldn’t be happier!
Has Sam’s story has inspired you to take that first step towards better health? We’re offering FREE Slimming World membership, plus six weeks for the price of five, when you join your local Slimming World group and commit to a six-week Countdown course before 28th May 2021.
Contact your local Consultant to book your place in group and find the voucher to take along here.
You can also join our digital-only service, Slimming World Online, and get £15/€20 off membership when you sign up before 28th May 2021. Click the link below and enter the code PHE2021 to take up the offer.