Meet Ruth, a 45-year-old mum of four from Mackworth who has impressively shed 50 kilos in the past year. Her motivation for change came after she struggled to keep pace with her youngest child during a zoo visit. Feeling unfit and dealing with high blood pressure, Ruth realised it was time to change. Now, she exercises daily, no longer needs blood pressure medication and has plenty of energy to keep up with her youngest child.
Find out how this busy mum dropped four dress sizes and gained a lifelong friend in the process!
“I was aware my weight was a problem, but it wasn’t until I considered hiring a mobility scooter at the zoo that I realized how unfit and heavy I’d become. The weight had crept up over the years, so when my 21-year-old son mentioned Livewell, recommended by our doctor, I decided to try it myself.
Initially sceptical, having tried numerous diet clubs and online trends before, I set a modest goal of losing just one stone. To my surprise, I enjoyed my first week at the new starter group in Alvaston, although the circuits class was challenging! I struggled to walk around the hall without regular breaks. However, after six weeks of consistent exercise and walking, I was running around the hall and pushing myself to complete all the moves.
I stopped driving for the school run, walked more, and participated in other classes like Boxwell with Joe, Move and Tone with Kirsty, Weekend Workout and Step, Conga and Pilates at Derby Arena once I’d completed the Pledge Points for membership. I then progressed to the gym, with two sessions a week. Before long, I was exercising six days a week and loving it.
The social side of Livewell kept me motivated. During the first session I met my amazing friend, Julie. We connected instantly and have supported each other ever since. We enjoy exercising together and encouraging one another. If one of us has a tough week, the other provides a push.
The activation group taught me about calories and the surprising amount in some foods I thought were healthy. While most of us know which foods aren’t good for us, the sessions made me aware of my overeating, especially pasta and rice. I’ve switched pizza takeaways and fried food for lean chicken bake with salad or veg, which I prepare for the week ready to reheat after a class or gym session. I have discovered new foods I enjoy, like tomatoes, which I previously avoided. I used to eat out of boredom but now I’m too busy exercising to get bored!
Visiting the drop-in weekly, it was helpful to see my progress and recognise where an increase or plateau was linked to overindulgence, having a few drinks or natural body changes. I used theses insights to review my progress and identify patterns.
My advisor, Joe has been fantastic, answering all my questions no matter how minor they seem. He also helped me try new equipment and exercises in the gym by creating a more challenging programme, which boosted my confidence.”
Ruth shares that her healthy habits are influencing her older children, and she now enjoys shopping for clothes with her teenage daughter, an activity she used to dread.
"I used to drive to Markeaton Park and lag behind my little boy. Now we walk together and play football. My improved fitness has made a huge difference, allowing me to be an active mum and run around after him.
My joint pain has vanished, my blood pressure is normal and I’m a more confident person. I found an old pair of jeans and my whole body could squeeze into one leg. I’m keeping hold of them as a reminder of how far I’ve come!”
Livewell advisor, Joe Wilkinson said:
