Martin loses almost 17 stone and now aims to help others
Martin Young, 53, gives a first-hand account of his incredible weight-loss journey.
By the time I heeded the concerns of my family and friends my weight had grown steadily over 10 years until I was morbidly obese, tipping the scales at more than 33 stone.
My health concerns were becoming more apparent and my diet and lifestyle choices were bordering on life-threatening. The very thought of joining a weight-loss group felt impossible and filled me with dread. I thought I would never lose weight anyway.
But when I joined Slimming World in Bedhampton in February 2017, the consultant and members made me feel very welcome. There was no judgment or humiliation and in the first week I lost 11.5lbs.
My food choices changed dramatically and I discovered a passion for cooking healthy home-made meals. Gone were convenience foods – pies, crisps, bread and takeaways.
And I can still enjoy English breakfasts, steak and chips, and a Sunday roast, as well as family favourites, chicken tikka masala, pasta Bolognese, sausage casserole and even gammon, egg and chips.
Just over two years after beginning my journey, I am half the man I used to be
Having embraced the weight-loss challenge I am now the man I want to be. Just over two years after beginning my journey, I am half the man I used to be, having lost 16 stone 10lbs.
I’m now heading into a new career, helping, advising, supporting and motivating my own group of members, with the aspiration of guiding these members to achieve their own meaningful and life-changing weightloss journey.
Instead of simply existing, I’m now living life to the full.
Martin is now a Slimming World consultant. His group is held on Saturday mornings from 8.30am until 10am at the Stride Centre, Daffodil Way, Havant.