Weight-Loss Success Stories

Weight-Loss Success Stories from Women.

Sarah Pethick, 39, from Duncraig, Western Australia, lost over 33 kilos with Weight Watchers.

Starting weight: 95.8kg
Current weight: 62kg

Time it took: 37 weeks

“Carrying around an extra 30 kilos every day, is a huge effort. I know – before joining Weight Watchers I was doing just that. I still can’t believe I didn’t notice the negative impact this weight was having on my body. Before my first meeting, I was terrified. But when I walked into the room, it really felt like home. It was a place of comfort and I knew no-one would be judging me. I could just be Sarah at the meeting – not a mum, daughter, wife or employee. Weight Watchers gave me more than weight-loss strategies – it gave me space to absorb new ideas and make my life better.

“In the past, I thought slim and average-size people must not eat much to maintain their figure. But after joining Weight Watchers, I realised my way of thinking was wrong. These days, I actually eat more food than I did before, except I’m now eating more frequently and healthier options. These days, I eat every two to three hours, which helps me stay ahead of hunger. While I’m organised with grocery shopping, meals and snacks, I don’t particularly enjoy cooking. But, eating well is important, so I take the time to make healthy meals built around lean protein and vegetables each night. I have a real appreciation of food now and am able to identify how it affects my body, which helps me to stay on track.

“Exercise had never been a passion, but since I started Weight Watchers I’ve found enjoyable ways to work out. Not only does fitness give me more flexibility to live a full life, it also works wonders for my mental health and happiness. In the past, I never exercised. Now, each week I attend one spin class, three strength-training sessions and go for a run, either on the treadmill at the gym or outside in the park. This level of exercise is maintainable and manageable for my lifestyle. I think it’s important to work out in ways that fit in with your life. It’s amazing how the idea of exercise has become ingrained into my day-to-day living! I feel really proud of my achievements. I want to be the best I can be, and I have a supportive family, a great job and lifestyle, and now I feel healthy and happy. This is my new way of life and it’s not a challenge. I’m making the best choices for me.”

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Natalie Hall, 21, from Runaway Bay, Queensland, lost 10 kilos with Weight Watchers.

Starting weight: 70kg
Current weight: 60kg

Time it took: 24 weeks

“I’d always felt like the larger one among my girlfriends, who were all tiny and petite. With the stress of Year 12, my weight crept up to 78 kilos. Looking back, I also ate to fight boredom. Then I saw a photo of me with my girlfriends that would change my life forever. Taken about three years ago, it was such an unflattering shot and a reminder of how different I looked compared to them. They could share clothes; I couldn’t. I felt so unhealthy and unhappy.

“After high school finished, I joined a gym and started exercising and eating better. The weight began to fall off and people were noticing the difference, but I knew I still had a few more kilos to shed. The only problem was not being completely sure how to do it because my weight hit a plateau. At the time, my mum Ruby was a Weight Watchers member, who eventually lost 13 kilos. I decided to follow her lead and attend regular meetings to help me shed those final few kilos.

“I’ve learnt so much from Weight Watchers, especially about satisfying meals. My amazing leader, Kyla, taught me how to bulk up meals with vegies so I stay fuller for the longer. There aren’t any healthy options on campus, so packing my own stops me from buying junk food. My eating habits have totally changed. In the past, I used to eat toast piled with butter and cinnamon sugar for breakfast, or I’d skip it altogether. Now, I have an omelette or homemade muesli with berries, honey and lactose-free milk. Also, my portions were as big as my dad’s, who’s 6’5”! I used to snack on brownies and drink mugs of hot chocolate all day, but now I love Mum’s homemade hummus with carrot sticks and enjoy her healthy smorgasbord of options for dinner. Mum is an amazing support and I’m constantly inspired by her.

“People often ask how I can enjoy going to parties while making healthy choices. It’s actually easier than everyone realises. Kyla [Thomas, Natalie’s Weight Watches Leader] told me to decide what’s more important on the night out: food or alcohol. If I choose alcohol, I’ll make sure I have a healthy dinner of homemade tacos or salad beforehand. Exercise is another great way to balance everything out. I work out every single day, whether it’s running, cardio at the gym or an RPM (indoor cycling class). At first, I found it hard to get motivated, but now it’s a normal part of my day and I love it. It makes me feel fantastic. My next fitness goal is to train for a half marathon next year. After battling with my weight for years, it’s wonderful to have slimmed down in a balanced, healthy way.”