When I first saw the FB post to enter the competition Tony was running, I never would have dreamed I’d be where I am today. I entered because I needed guidance and a helping hand to push me to the next phase in my weight loss journey. And I got it, by the bucket load.
I’d started out on my own in September because I needed to lose weight to have an operation. I started well, but, as typically happens with a new ‘diet’, I had started to lose momentum. The Top Condition PT competition came along at just the right moment. I’m a big believer in things happening for a reason- I was meant to see that post that day and I’m so pleased I did as it’s been body, and ultimately, life changing.
I’ve now completed my 8 weeks of training and I can honestly say my diet is unrecognisable and there is far less of me than when I started working with Tony. My greatest achievement is something I didn’t think possible in such a short amount of time- I got the go-ahead from my surgeon to have the operation I need! (This also happened on the same day I had my last session with Tony – again: coincidence?) I know I’m not supposed to be excited about being cut open, (and I’m sure when it comes to going through with it, I won’t be quite as happy!) but my ultimate goal from this opportunity has ACTUALLY happened. I can’t thank Tony enough.
I haven’t lost as much ‘weight’ in lbs on the scales as I thought I would, but I HAVE lost the ‘fluffy’ stuff as Tony calls it! Which, I believe, is really what we want when we start a journey like this. Less fluffy stuff and more curves is really where we’re headed. Looking fab in an outfit and feeling good about yourself, far outweighs what the scales say. So, since the start of December to start of February I have lost over 30cm of me 🙂
Shoulders -2cm
Bust -5cm
Arms -2cm
Waist -8cm
Hips -7cm
Thighs -5cm
Calves -3cm
From the initial consultation to today, Tony has been with me every step of the way. His support has been unwavering and invaluable; his positive and humorous approach has kept me focused and on track. Yes I was initially self-conscious and yes I was dubious if I’d ever manage a 1:1 session without coughing up a lung…but I really had nothing to worry about. I’ve enjoyed pushing myself and having that sense of accomplishment and post-workout buzz…especially when I finished the set of press-ups I didn’t think I would ever complete!
I’m not going to say that it’s been easy, it really hasn’t. I had Christmas right in the middle of the time of these 8 weeks and self-control isn’t exactly my forte. But with Tony’s support and the daily diet support I received, I managed to develop strategies and overcome some of the issues lots of us have when we are trying to improve our lifestyle and health.
* I’ve taken on Tony’s mantra: ‘calorie is king’ and regardless of anything else, they count more than what food types I’ve eaten. I’m a religious food tracker and everything goes into my app to make me aware of what I’m eating. I need the accountability factor to keep me focused and I can make informed decisions about whether or not to have that extra treat.
* I now have breakfast- without fail. Admittedly it is a protein shake, but it works for me and my lifestyle. I am a nightmare in the mornings (my colleagues will agree I’m not the happiest bunny pre 8.30am), but I make sure I have a high protein start to my day. By tweaking this part way through the 8 weeks, I’ve virtually eliminated my snacks.
* I’ve realised cooking from scratch really isn’t as time consuming as I first thought. My George Forman grill (with removable plates- as I hate washing up with a passion) has been a Godsend. I’ve also bought a microwaveable steamer. Both of which are perfect when you’re cooking under time constraints. I’m currently attempting to build a liking for kale (we’ll see!)
* I also have learned that it’s ok to have fun and have a life without feeling guilty! Tony has helped me develop strategies to keep to plan(ish) and still enjoy social occasions (which I do- a lot!). I will now allow for the calorie heavy nights out, or I’ll make adjustments through my day. He has made me see that this needs to be sustainable otherwise I will revert back to my old habits.
* Finally, exercise needs to be fun and enjoyable. I tried with running, my body protested several times and so it wasn’t for me. However, I love going for a long walk with my iPod and audiobook and its sustainable for my lifestyle. Again, you’ve just got to find what works for you.
Like most of you, I’m a busy girl with lots going on, but these 8 weeks with Tony have made me realise, if you want it enough you just have to make small changes -not sacrifices. Just because the 8 weeks are over, doesn’t mean my journey is over either. Far from it. I still have a fair way to go with the fluffy stuff, but the curves are definitely there and will continue to develop with everything Tony has helped with me learn. I’m motivated to keep at it. I’m going to be catching up with him on a monthly basis to monitor my progress and I’m also posting to Tony’s FB group and following his challenges to keep me focused. Can’t praise Top Condition PT enough…he’s true to his word: Don’t dream it…achieve it!
Sam 🙂
Sam was 100% committed to this and I’m so proud of how far she has come. I will keep you posted as i know for a fact that she will be even CLOSER to her goal in a couple of months time.
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