Heather’s Oxfam ambition

 

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After

Before Name Heather Age 27 Height 1.58 m Was 68.1 kg  Lost 12.7 kg  Weight 55.4 kg  Support Heather as she prepares for the big race by visiting her team web page.

My weight-loss story

What was your inspiration to lose weight?
You could say my wedding was my inspiration; however there were so many other contributing factors. I hated seeing photos of myself; my family and old school friends would make snide remarks; I was always buying new clothes because my old ones were too tight; I felt self-conscious 24/7 and never sexy.

Why Weight Watchers?
I had heard so many good things about Weight Watchers. Everyone I spoke to about the program seemed to have either been successful themselves, or known someone who had. They all talked about the program as safe, healthy, affordable and supportive. It was something I hadn't tried before that I thought I could commit to.

What changes did you make along the way?
There were quite a few changes I made in terms of food, but they were all so easy! I have reduced my portion sizes, and include more fresh fruit, salad and vegies in my meals. I cook Weight Watchers recipes that I find in the magazine, cookbooks, meeting booklets and eNewsletters. My other favourite change is substitution, so rather than missing out I just make a better choice with less POINTS® values.

I started out walking and used interval training to build up my running ability. At first I struggled to run for 2 minutes, but now I can run for 5km! Over winter, I used Pilates DVDs, hired a cross trainer and went to classes at the gym. I think fun and variety are key; I often exercise with my husband or a girlfriend and have started playing basketball again.

What does a healthy life mean to you?
Health is the key – it provides me with every opportunity to live life to the fullest. Being comfortable in my own skin (and new clothes), as well as looking in the mirror and liking what I see, is enough to keep me motivated. The compliments from my husband, family and friends don't hurt either!

The Oxfam Trailwalker

What inspired you to commit to the race?
One of my best friends asked me, along with some other high school friends, if we would be keen. I was immediately interested! Not only are Oxfam are a fantastic charity, but I knew it would be a great way to keep fit and healthy, and maintain my weight whilst enjoying a fun challenge.

Would you have considered doing it prior to losing weight?
I like to think I would have, but if I'm honest, probably not. I would not have had the confidence in my fitness. It was Weight Watchers that really got me motivated to exercise regularly and push myself to achieve my goals.

How have you been preparing for the race?
My friends and I have been training for over 3 months already. On Tuesday nights we do 10km walks around our local areas; each Saturday we step it up and try out a new leg of the trail, which can be as much of a mental challenge as a physical one!

How much do you hope to raise?
We have committed to raising at least $2,000 by the end of May 2010; however we would like to raise as much as possible, especially considering the support Oxfam is providing to Haiti. We are kicking off our fundraising with sausage sizzles at Bunnings stores, and we are also accepting donations from family and friends.

What do you hope to achieve from participating in the race?
There is just so much... The opportunity to support the fight against global poverty and injustice; the amazing health and fitness benefits that will result from the training; the personal satisfaction of being involved in one of the toughest team challenges in the world (and hopefully reaching the end in time); but also spending more time with my beautiful girlfriends - we are already talking about running in a marathon!