Nearly eighteen months into my new health and fitness routine, I still find it slightly surprising that the changes I made have actually stuck with me. Back in January 2025 I never imagined that what started as a simple diet would turn into a permanent lifestyle change.
Like many people, lockdown didn’t do my health any favours. I had put on a lot of weight and the problems were fairly obvious:
- An unhealthy diet and poor portion control
- A sedentary lifestyle with little exercise (and working from home)
I was extremely overweight, unfit and carrying a lot of water retention. Something had to change.
While there are many different ways to approach weight loss and fitness, these are the things that worked best for me.
What helped the most
Calorie counting and portion control. I log everything using the NutraCheck app, which allows you to scan food barcodes and track calories easily.
Regular weigh-ins. Tracking both weight loss and occasional gains helps my weight awareness.
Daily exercise. Walking regularly has been one of the most important changes. It has helped both with losing weight and maintaining fitness.
Drinking more water – something that I am not very good at but I am improving.
Technology – my iPhone and Apple Watch has greatly helped track performance. The use of the watch to track walking has been particularly useful.
Planning treats and finding alternatives. You can still enjoy things you like, but sometimes a lighter option helps. For example, choosing a “Crunchie” chocolate bar instead of something more calorie heavy like a “Dairy Milk”.
Health improvements
The benefits of my new lifestyle go far beyond weight loss. I’m now heading towards a six-stone weight loss, but the biggest changes are how I feel day to day.
1. More energy and better overall fitness
2. Feeling less tired in the evenings
3. Smaller clothing sizes
4. Lower blood pressure
5. Reduced or stopped snoring
6. Fewer aches and pains
7. Much less water retention
8. Better digestion
9. Improved mental health
Everyone’s journey will look different, but the key is finding what works for you and simply sticking with it.
Leave a Reply