Star Member - Nicola's Story
Taking Control
I have struggled with my weight since my early teenage years. At 17 I really started to pile it on and haven't really been able to shift any great amount and sustain it.
I managed to lose 3 stone for my wedding 3 years ago but when I fell pregnant with my second child I really got out of control. I was a size 24 and weighed 18st 4lbs.
At this point I decided enough was enough, I was not going to set this example for my children.
From January of 2010 I started to take control of my diet and exercised for the first time in my life. I eat 3 meals a day with fruit in the evening. I have been very strict with myself because I wanted it so badly. It was a case of making it a lifestyle change and not just a short-term quick fix, as they had never worked for me in the past! I first tried Ocean in July 2010 on a 30day membership and couldn't bear the thought of not having exercise in my life, so I joined immediately after. I set myself mini challenges all the time to keep me motivated. When I hit a plateau I book in with a trainer and get a harder program! I would never have done that in the past but now I can, I can't stop the urge to keep getting fitter and stronger!!
To date I have lost 6 stone and have most definitely caught the bug! I now work out 3 times a week and plan on doing the race for life 5k run in July. I have turned a corner in my life and will never go back. I still have a way to go but over the next 6 months I know I will reach those goals too.