A MUM from Alcester has shared her weight loss journey after embracing a new fitness and healthy eating routine.

Abi Hall, 40, had been putting off checking her weight, after several years without a fitness routine, having two children and regularly comfort eating until she decided to face her fears in August last year.

Abi, a part time Member Pioneer at Co-op, said: “I had been unhappy with my weight for a while, but I didn’t want to check the scales, I thought if I don’t see it, it’s not happening.

“I knew I wanted to do something about my weight, but it took me months before I thought it’s better to find out what I’m dealing with and stepped onto the scales. I was 16 stone, 13 pounds.

“It gave me the push I needed so I joined The Grieg Leisure Centre, changed my diet, and set myself a target to lose two stones by Christmas.

“I was nervous about joining the leisure centre, especially under the current circumstances and not knowing how the centre will be operating. I decided to drop by while I was on a walk and got a pleasant surprise.

“Everything was clearly marked, from the QR code and sanitiser station at the entrance to the markers and systems throughout the centre, I actually think it’s one of the cleanest places to go to.

“Everyone was so welcoming, when I approached reception and said I was thinking about joining, I was given a tour and felt much more confident about coming along and starting my new fitness routine.

“Another important aspect was changing my diet.

Redditch Advertiser: Abi HallAbi Hall

 "I decided to make changes to my existing diet rather than completely overhauling what I was eating.

“It includes adjustments like switching to semi skimmed milk, using less oil, cutting out butter and adjusting my portion sizes - my kids didn’t even notice the changes I was making, but they’ve made a huge impact - I’m already down to 12 stone, 10 pounds already.”

Abi’s membership at The Greig Leisure Centre, managed by Everyone Active in partnership with Stratford District Council, has been pivotal to her weight loss, which has seen her smash her Christmas target and lose double the weight she aimed for.

She said: “I visit the leisure centre a couple of times a week, and plan to start personal training sessions in the New Year too. I joined The Greig to tackle my weight but it has been great for my mental health and wellbeing too. In a year that’s mainly been spent at home, my new fitness routine means I’m getting active and it also gives me some ‘me time’ - and that benefits everyone in the house.”

Adam Mundy, General Manager at Everyone Active, said: “We’re tremendously proud of Abi’s willpower and determination to improving her health and fitness. She has worked so hard to get where she is and shows no signs of stopping.

“Adopting new healthy lifestyle changes can be really difficult to maintain but Abi has embraced it and the results have been inspiring to us all.

“We look forward to seeing her friendly face in the leisure centre as she continues her journey.”