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It was a weight loss family affair

Name: Abbey
Age: 21
Height: 5'4"
Was: 12 st 10 lb
Lost: 3 st 2 lb
Weight: 9 st 8 lb

Following in the footsteps of her mum and sister, uni student Abbey joined her local meeting and lost over 3st!

How long had you been overweight before joining Weight Watchers?

I was unhappy with my weight for about five years, but things started to get out of control in the last two years when I started uni. My weight gain had a lot to do with adopting an unhealthy lifestyle and participating in uni culture - it was all about parties, drinking, and greasy takeaway food. Great for my social life, but not so good for weight management!

What prompted you to make changes?

Both my mum and my sister were (and still are) Weight Watchers members, so I was constantly seeing their weight loss success. I was self-conscious and unhappy, and it got me thinking 'why aren't I doing the Programme too?'. So I decided to join my local meeting.

You have maintained your goal weight since March, 2007. Has it been difficult?

To be honest, not really. By attending the meetings and having the support of my mum and sister, making healthy choices just comes naturally now. I never used to have breakfast, but I can't imagine not having it now! I also drink so much more water. I know what I need to eat and how often I need to exercise in order to maintain a healthy weight. Plus my sister is a Leader and my mum is a weigher so I don't have an excuse to be unhealthy!

How do you find being on the Plan AND having a social life?

It was hard at first because I had to break so many bad habits. I still go out heaps with my friends, but I've learned to make healthy choices and avoid temptation. I also cut down on alcohol after discovering it's just empty calories. I don't see any reason why I can't have dessert, or have a glass of wine, but there's no need to go overboard like I used to.

What's your exercise routine like?

When I first joined Weight Watchers I would exercise five days a week to lose weight, but now I do it because I love it! It's become part of my routine and makes me feel good. I work at my local gym, which is perfect because it means I have free membership. I enjoy cardio workouts the most, so my sister and I do aerobics classes together. I also play netball at the weekend.

Even though you're a Gold Member, do you still attend meetings?

I always weigh in once a month, as I find it keeps me on track. There is so much support there and it's a great place to go for inspiration, advice, or just to see how everyone else is going.