When a new runner got cold feet about weight gain, she became a buff bride. – By Lisa Abdellah

Age: 27
Home Town: Cape Town
Height: 1.58m
Occupation: Research Psychologist
Time Required: 8 Months
Then: 75kg
Now: 57kg

THE WAKE-UP

When I finished my internship, I started a demanding new job, and I faced challenges in my family life. Having to adapt to these stressful changes, coupled with my lack of knowledge when it came to proper nutrition and exercise, led to my gradual weight gain.

My fiancé proposed while we were on holiday in our hometown, East London. Which was amazing news. But how could I look my best on my wedding day when I felt so unhappy in my own skin?

THE SHAKE-UP

The reality was, I couldn’t afford a gym contract or a personal trainer, because at the time I’d just finished my internship. So I had to find cost-effective ways to lose weight.

I joined an inexpensive fitness club – a class that took place twice a week – and participated in my local Parkrun. Then I found a group of like-minded woman runners called Catch Me If You Can. In a group setting, I felt safe, and the women inspired and motivated me to reach my personal goals.

I was assigned a health coach at the fitness club, who taught me you can’t outrun a spoon! Which helped me to understand the importance of nutrition. I began to focus on what I was eating, and how I was eating it.

THE REWARD

In a matter of months, I went from walking most of the Parkrun to running it in under 30 minutes, and achieving a 10-K PB of 57 minutes. I feel amazing in my own skin, I have more energy, and I believe in myself so much more than I did before I started running.

Being part of Catch Me If You Can allows me to share my experiences with other women, and help them to believe they too are capable of running.

Have you run off significant weight and changed your life? Show us your before-and-after by emailing your story to rwletters@media24.com.

Inspired by Nicole’s story? Join the club and start your weight-loss journey with the Run It Off Plan below. What are you waiting for?

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