BodyBlitz Challenge Measurements Before Height: 186 cm Weight: 113.2 kg Chest: 114 cm Waist: 112 cm Calves: 45.4 cm Arms: 39.3 cm Thighs: 68.5 cm After Height: 187 cm Weight: 98.6 kg Chest: 113.2 cm Waist: 91 cm Calves: 42 cm Arms: 38 cm Thighs: 63 cm

Looking back over the past 12 weeks, I can best describe this as being an emotional and physical rollercoaster.

When I was younger I used to be really active, but things slowly changed as my health and lifestyle changed as I got older. I live with a diseased left kidney that only functions 30 per cent; I was born with this problem. Over the past 10 years I have experienced numerous problems related to this sick kidney, like kidney stones. This has become is a way of life for me as I experience kidney stones 2-3 times per year. I stopped doing exercise and started to each rubbish food; I felt sorry for myself. Being overweight didn’t help my kidney problems either.

When I looked in the mirror I didn’t like the person that I saw. As most overweight people will tell you, life is not that glamorous when you live such an unhealthy life. I am only 30 years old and I felt permanently tired, depressed and had a negative outlook on life. I fell into the same trap as a lot of people do — I tried to convince myself that I had no time or was too tired or sick to go to gym or exercise. This worked, and I stayed away from gym. Well let me tell you, that was an absolute lie, and deep down I knew that, but I wasn’t prepared to face the facts. It was easier to hide behind all these excuses.

Reading through some of the success stories of BodyBlitz winners, I realised that all is not lost — if they can do it, I can do it. This was the breakthrough I needed to get myself out of the dumps. I was excited and couldn’t wait to start the challenge. I realised that I am in control of my own destiny; I am the reason why I look and feel like I do, it’s no-one else’s fault but mine. So, I made a promise to myself to repair the damage I have done to my body. No more excuses!

My first four weeks were difficult; being overweight and totally unfit the going was tough. Results didn’t come as quickly as I hoped for, but I quickly realised that patience and determination is the key to success. Things became easier in weeks 4-8 and results became apparent. My fitness and energy levels improved drastically and my motivation was on the up. For once I could feel positive momentum going my way.
I felt in control of my emotions, and my physical appearance started to change — and I liked it! During weeks 8-12 I was unstoppable; I was in a routine, exercising six times a week and eating good food became second nature. Man I felt young again, my old self!

Today, 12 weeks after I began this challenge, it feels like I got a second chance in life. This challenge has given me the kick-start I needed to get back on track, not only for myself but the people that care about me. Thanks for showing me the light at the end of the tunnel! IM