“We’re so much happier now”
Closer speaks to three women who have been inspired by the pandemic to change their lives… ‘I’ve gone from flabby to fit!’
Chiedza Mazarire, 30, lives with her parents in County Down, Northern Ireland, and works for an e-commerce business.
She says, “At a size 16, I’d always been bigger than my friends, and I’d lost count of how many diets I’d been on over the years. I’d spend hours in the gym and ban certain foods, but then get bored and the weight would always creep back on.
“My weakness was roast potatoes with lots of butter and salt. I’d often eat a whole bowl as a snack and I’d have a Chinese takeaway a couple of times a week too.
“By the time lockdown began, I was 5ft 2in, weighed 14st 4lb and was a size 16. I moved back home to stay with my parents and just four days later, I was furloughed from my job. Suddenly, with so much free time, I realised my weight could get completely out of control – or I could do something about it once and for all. Instead of saying I was too busy to cook, I could look for new healthy recipes and start exercising.
“Here was an opportunity to finally get in shape, and I was determined to grab it with
both hands. I wanted some accountability, so I decided to share my efforts on Instagram, posting videos of me working out. I gained hundreds of followers and all the supportive comments spurred me on.
“I borrowed weights from some friends and started running too. Gradually, my fitness levels improved – I’d exercise most days and found I was losing up to 3lb a week. Instead of roast potatoes, I’d have a small bowl of cereal for breakfast, an avocado salad for lunch, and fish and boiled potatoes for dinner. I allowed myself a Chinese takeaway once a week, as a treat.
“Sixteen weeks after starting my new regime, I’ve gone from flabby to fit! I’ve lost 1st 7lb, taking my weight to 12st 11lb.
I’ve dropped two dress sizes and am now a size 12. One woman messaged and said my Instagram page had inspired her to go for a bike ride, which was nice! I wouldn’t have lost the weight if it hadn’t been for lockdown. It’s given me the time to focus on me. My mum has been a huge support too, helping me plan my meals. My weight loss journey will continue, but I’m already so much happier and more confident.”
Follow Chiedza’s progress on Instagram @chiedzamaz