After losing weight, I faced challenges that led to regaining it all. Here’s what I learned from my journey.
Cardiff: So, it’s a new year, and you know what that means—resolutions! Everyone’s trying to shed those stubborn pounds, right? Well, in 2023, I decided it was time for a change. I wanted to improve my mental and physical health.
Back then, I was in university, just wrapping up my in-person classes. I had let myself go and weighed a hefty 16 stones at 5ft 6in, which put me in the medically obese category. But with a solid diet plan and a tough workout routine, I managed to lose over 20kgs in just four months. Sounds great, right? Well, I soon realized I had made some big mistakes.
Fast forward to 2025, and I was shocked to see the scales creeping back up to triple digits. Looking back, I see that my extreme approach to weight loss was a big reason I couldn’t keep it off. I’m no expert, but I want to share my missteps in hopes it helps someone else.
First off, set realistic goals. I lost more than three stones, but I aimed to lose four-and-a-half stones in that same time. Crazy, right? I felt disappointed every time I stepped on the scale and didn’t hit my target, forgetting that losing any weight was a huge achievement.
Then there’s the issue of doing too much too fast. I pushed my body to its limits, working out so hard that I could barely move the next day. Sure, you need to challenge yourself, but not to the point of exhaustion. I was at the gym for hours every day, and it took a toll on my body.
Eventually, I developed a tennis elbow, which forced me to take a break. That break meant I started gaining weight back during recovery. So, lesson learned: rest is just as important as working out.
Now, about my diet. I had a well-planned diet, but it was all about hitting a certain look rather than focusing on health. I counted calories and measured portions, but it was exhausting. I learned that it’s better to listen to your body instead of sticking to a rigid plan.
And don’t obsess over weight loss. It’s great to feel proud of your progress, but it shouldn’t consume your life. I remember a friend telling me I was more than just a number on the scale. At the time, I didn’t get it, but now I see how right he was.
My life became all about food and workouts, and I found myself going out less and enjoying life less. Sure, cutting back on socializing can help with weight loss, but too much can backfire.
Finally, set limits after losing weight. It feels amazing to achieve your goals, but it’s easy to slip back into old habits. I thought I deserved a treat, but one drink turned into many, and before I knew it, I was back where I started.
So, that’s my not-so-glamorous journey from fat to fit, and then back again. But hey, it doesn’t have to end here. I’m ready to try again, this time with the lessons I’ve learned. How about you?
