Two local women who transformed their health, confidence and lifestyles through Slimming World are preparing to help others do the same when they launch new groups in Caerphilly county later this month.
For Claire Hambly and Louise Watts, joining Slimming World was about far more than losing weight. Both say they found a flexible way of eating that fitted around family life, alongside support that helped them make lasting changes.
Claire says one of the biggest surprises was discovering how much she could eat while still losing weight.
“As a food lover, I thought I’d have to give up the foods I enjoyed,” she says. “Instead, I found I could enjoy satisfying meals, never feel hungry and still lose weight.”
Claire says the weekly support she received from fellow members was just as important as the weight loss itself. As her confidence grew, she became more active and now enjoys hiking and long walks with her dog.
Having achieved her own target, she is now preparing to relaunch the Ynysddu Slimming World group.
Louise’s journey began after years of struggling with her weight while balancing work, family life and reduced mobility following a car accident.
Although she had previously lost weight with Slimming World, seeing photographs of herself at her heaviest and wanting to be more active with her daughter encouraged her to return.
Over the past year, Louise has lost three stone and dropped two dress sizes.
She says Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan has helped her family enjoy healthy, budget-friendly meals together without cooking separate food.
“We all eat the same meals,” she says. “From spaghetti bolognese and curries to Sunday roasts, we’ve found a way of eating that works for real life.”
Louise also rediscovered her love of exercise through dance-based fitness classes and says the confidence she has gained has been life-changing.
Both women say their success was made possible by combining Slimming World’s healthy eating plan with the encouragement and support available in group each week.
Now they are hoping to inspire others to take their own first step.
Claire will relaunch the Ynysddu Slimming World group at Sardis Chapel, High Street, Ynysddu, on Tuesday, June 30, at 5.30pm. You can contact her on 07847 213112
Louise, who can be contacted on 07525 446405, will launch her new group at Cascade Community Centre, Llwyn Onn, Penpedairheol, Hengoed, also on Tuesday, June 30, at 5.30pm.
Anyone interested in learning more about Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan and weekly support groups is welcome to attend.
Find your local Slimming World group today.
• Inspired by Claire and Louise’s journeys? Slimming World is looking for new Consultants to launch and run groups across the area. To find out more, contact Jo Creese on 07530 343262 to join a one-hour online information event.
Interested in becoming a Slimming World Consultant?
Call Joanne on 07530 343262 for more information