BOOZY PALS HATE THE FIT SLIM NEW ME

Dear Coleen

After years of being overweight and struggling with diets, I got into running last autumn and I love it.

I’m slim and healthy for the first time in my adult life and I feel great. I’m also drinking less alcohol because it doesn’t have the same appeal as it had before, although I still have the odd drink. I just don’t go overboard like I used to in the past.

My problem is that I’ve received a pretty negative reaction from my close group of girlfriends. I don’t actually think they like it that I’m not the frumpy fat one any more and they can’t relate to the fact that I love running.

They’re always “joking” that running is dull and I’m no fun any more because I don’t want to get blind drunk with them every weekend. Any advice on what I can do? We’re all in our early 30s and have been best friends since university.

Coleen says

First of all, well done you. I always say the key to losing weight and getting fitter and healthier is finding an exercise or activity you love, which is what you’ve done.

I think you could be right that there’s a little jealousy going on. And not just because you look great, but because you’ve found something you’re passionate about that they’re not a part of.

Rather than getting more resentful when they make a dig, say something. Don’t be angry, just say their comments are starting to get to you and it’s taking the shine off something positive in your life.

And tell them just because you’re not getting legless, it doesn’t mean you’re dull and don’t want to socialise with them.

I’ve never been a drinker and I’ve had people badger me to drink on nights out, but I really couldn’t care less. I’m happy with a Coke or a latte and I can still party with the best of them till the wee small hours. Stay strong.