Take the pressure off

A SHOCK diagnosis from the doctor was the eye-opener Jason Wallom needed to turn his life around and get his health back on track.

Mr Wallom, an associate at Hobart firm Xsquared Architects, said being diagnosed with high blood sugar at the age of 45 “was probably the kick that I needed to get back into fitness”.

He joined All Aerobics Fitness after speaking with owner Guy Franklin one lunchtime and embarked on a 12-week fitness challenge, with five to six days of weight and spin cardio classes each week.

“Things are really starting to turn around,” said Mr Wallom, who has lost 13kg since starting the program.

“I’ve got heaps more energy and the weight loss is fantastic, and it’s a feeling of being more healthy.”

Back in good health and full of energy, Mr Wallom is looking forward to tackling next Sunday’s City to Casino Fun Run with his colleagues.

“It’s just a bit of fun to get out there on the track with the work colleagues,’’ he said.

“I’ve spent 12 weeks in the gym, so that’s got to have a bit of benefit. As long as my [fun run] time’s better than last year I’ll be happy.”

Mr Wallom said the end of his training program wouldn’t be the end of his new attitude towards exercise.

“It’s been more of a lifestyle change,’’ he said.

“My goal now is to get down to my optimum body weight, so it’s just the beginning of the journey.”

On top of his workout regimen, Mr Wallom also changed his approach to food.

“I’m actually eating breakfast now, a good lunch and a smaller evening meal,” he said.

“I’m actually logging my food on a fitness app called My Fitness Pal, which is keeping me accountable.”

Mr Wallom said really wanting to do it and being comfortable in a supportive workout environment helped him achieve his fitness goals.

“The gym is motivational and supportive, and my trainer Daniel has been really awesome,’’ he said.

“Every day is different, dynamic and fun.”

One of the biggest rewards for Mr Wallom has been his blood pressure returning to a normal range, as well as getting to the point where he almost doesn’t need the medication he was prescribed.

Entries for the 46th City to Casino Fun Run and Walk close on Friday (May 18).

The event will be held next Sunday (May 20), with the 11km run starting adjacent to the Hobart Showground, and the 7km run and walk starting from Cornelian Bay.