Occupation: Head of Modern Languages and Spanish
Martial status: Married
Age: 38
Where you live: Suffolk
Date of New You Boot Camp attended: 17-24 July 2010

Your Story:

Having been tempted by New You Boot Camp for several years, I finally plucked up the courage  to sign up in July for a number of reasons. One reason was to de-stress: with a busy department of 13 to look after, I was in desperate need for some ‘me time’ – as a teacher I tend to work 12 hour days and have little time for myself – and also quite relished the idea of being told what to do for a change, rather than have to tell others. Three years ago I also lost a considerable amount of weight (nearly three stone) but had put back on about a stone in the past year – despite maintaining a low-fat diet, nothing I was doing was making any difference (e.g. 2 boxacise classes, an hour’s PT session and a 40 min run), hence by going to New You Boot Camp, I was hoping for a kick start again. In the week itself, I lost eight pounds and 4 inches which although pleasing didn’t seem much considering the amount of effort I had put in (I really did bust a gut!). I did love every minute of it though – I was almost sad to leave the place! – and I relished the challenge of the morning runs and continually tried to push myself in the course of the week. Yes, it was tough, but the encouragement of staff really did spur me on, and the other girls were great. What made the difference though was carrying on the good work that the staff taught me when I got home, not only from an exercise point of view but also from a nutritional one – even my husband is now quite used to the taste of quinoa!

Overall, since starting boot camp in the 3rd week of July, I have lost 22 pounds, dropping two dress sizes in the process as you can tell from the pic, and my body shape has changed dramatically. It’s not been easy fitting it in around work (our Autumn term is always manic) but the results and all the lovely comments I have had from my family and friends have been worth it. We’re also hoping to start a family soon, so by losing the extra weight, I hope we are getting the best start in that respect.

How has it changed your life?

I now exercise most mornings before work, having joined a local gym where I do a combination of cardiovascular and strength bearing work, and have continued with my runs, PT sessions and boxacise classes. My skin looks great, I fit easily into size 12 clothes, and the weight is continuing to come off which makes me feel tons better about myself. Wearing size ‘small’ gives you such a confidence boost!

Have you set your self any targets?

I would like to lose another half stone if possible, and also aim to make New You Boot Camp a regular part of my summer break.

What would you say to anyone thinking of booking on? 

Go for it – it is an absolutely knackering week but you really do get out what you put in, and the habits you learn will hopefully stay with you for life!*