"Livewell came at just the right time for me. I’m healthier, happier, and I’ve made friends for life. Now, I want to help others do the same."
Lisa, a determined 50-year-old, has faced significant challenges, including tragic bereavements and illness, yet she remains steadfast in achieving her goals. Not only has she transformed her health and fitness, but she has also formed genuine friendships with others who have supported each other throughout their Livewell journeys.
Lisa, a Work Coach for the DWP, relocated from London to Littleover in Derby in 2023 with her husband after the tragic loss of her youngest son. Feeling mentally vulnerable and heartbroken, she viewed the move as a step towards healing by being closer to her older son in Mansfield.
Here, Lisa shares her journey so far:
"My doctor introduced me to Livewell, explaining that my weight was contributing to my joint pain and high blood pressure. My desk job kept me inactive, and aside from short dog walks, I was largely sedentary and consumed unhealthy foods in large quantities.
I signed up on the website and was encouraged when Libby from the customer service team called to explain the weight loss programme, check my interest, and book me in. Being new to Derby, she patiently helped me find an activation group that fit my schedule and was conveniently located at the City of Derby Academy in Sinfin. The kindness shown at that first contact reassured me, but I was still nervous walking through the door of the first session.
Advisors Yasmin and Becky welcomed everyone, and it was a relief to see others who were also apprehensive. They split us into smaller groups, and mine bonded so well that we formed a WhatsApp group and have been encouraging each other ever since!
The 10-week activation was enlightening. The educational sessions taught me practical tips, and the green Eatwell book is now my go-to guide for portion sizes. I followed Yasmin’s suggestion of using a smaller plate, which works wonders—our eyes perceive a normal-sized portion as larger and more satisfying.
I swapped full-fat crisps for low-fat ones, eat lots more fruit and veg, and our group regularly shares recipes and tips, such as using natural yoghurt instead of mayo with tuna. We even use an exercise dice with different bodyweight exercises to stay active while waiting for food to cook. It’s a fun way to incorporate extra activity into our day. As a group, we support each other at exercise classes, meet up for gym sessions, walks, or a cuppa, and build each other up. Over the past year, these ladies have become lifelong friends.
Livewell’s exercise sessions cater to everyone. Regardless of your starting point, there’s a move for you—seated, standing, or adapted. I started with circuits in the activation group and soon branched out to other classes. Now, I exercise 4-5 times a week, including Yasmin’s Move and Tone (now led by Gemma during Yasmin’s maternity leave), Becky’s Yoga, Weekend Workout, Zumba at Moorways, and a weekly gym session with the Livewell girls. I’ve also started swimming, and alongside daily dog walks, I’m active every day—a stark contrast to my previous lifestyle. I make it my mission to ‘close my rings’ every day!
Though it’s been a challenging year with more family bereavements, I’m getting back on track. Exercise has significantly improved my mental health, and I’ve noticed much less joint pain now that I’m fitter and more mobile. I also take less medication for my arthritis. At 50, I can do more than I could 10 or even 20 years ago!
I’m living proof that if you’re ready to make changes, Livewell can help you get there. I recommend the service to my clients at the Derby Job Centre. Once I’ve completed my own journey, I’d love to help others by becoming a Livewell volunteer, sharing my experiences and encouraging others to reach their own goals."