Vitality HealthyWeight: "It's so simple and easy" - Paul Williams

"I've always struggled to keep a healthy weight and so I decided this was the year to do something about it," Paul recalls.

Opting for Vitality's HealthyWeight Programme, Paul enjoyed daily support from his very own qualified dietitian, tailored meal plans, simple recipes and an easy weekly grocery shopping list throughout his three-month programme. By sticking to the programme, Paul managed to lose 15 kg in body mass and 47 cm around his waist.

Nothing changes if nothing changes

Determined to make a lifestyle change, Paul's strong mindset was well rewarded when he began seeing some positive changes in just three weeks. And things only got better from there on. Paul elaborates, "With my continued weight loss, I noticed that I had more focus and more energy. I felt less bogged down by the daily stresses of life. I was in better spirits knowing that everything in my closet fits. That alone makes you feel good."

Flexible enough for frequent travellers

With a career that requires him to travel often, with lengthy stays at times, Paul was concerned about being able to maintain his healthy eating plan while travelling overseas for a month. Although his busy work schedule didn't allow for grocery shopping, he was guided by his coach and the principles of his eating plan and always opted for healthier meals while eating out. His determination served him well during his stay in Denmark and Sweden as he continued road running through their beautiful cities; he even managed to keep up with 'home workouts' in his hotel room.

"I managed to lose 5 kg over my trip - which is quite unusual when you're traveling abroad," he points out.

A little encouragement goes a long way

Health and nutrition coaches are often associated with the stereotypical whistle-wearing drill sergeant. Paul's preconceived ideas were no different. He acknowledges, "I thought the eating plan would follow a relentless 'diet' style, but I was pleasantly surprised. My coach was a great help, especially when I had to travel for work. She was lenient within reason, she made getting healthy fun and gave great encouragement and support which was backed by solid informative knowledge. Checking in with her regularly kept me motivated and on my toes, especially over weekends, when keeping on track is always most difficult."

A note on nutrition

Being an experienced researcher, Paul has a naturally enquiring mind and wanted to understand why he was seeing such significant changes in himself.

"I must say I am very skeptical about these types of things. I even had a chat with my coach about the programme. I wanted to understand the science behind the eating plan. Now that I understand how it actually works and have achieved the results I wanted, I will definitely recommend it to people.

"I also don't like counting calories. The best part about this programme is that the dietician who designed my meal plan did all the hard work for me. It's so simple and easy. I'd say try it based on the sheer convenience it brings."

Paul was also impressed with the wide range of recipes available to him. Although there were more intricate dishes to choose from, many options were simple enough for him to cook when it came to preparing meals.

Stepping forward in good health

Being a lover of road running, Paul used to enjoy the challenge of half marathons. His recent weight loss has given him the boost he needed and motivated him to get back on the road.

"Recently, I had my best 10 km run. I used to struggle to get up and go before, but now I'm actually enjoying every run I take. The Vitality HealthyWeight programme has definitely helped me. I feel more energetic and a lot lighter on the road."

With a wardrobe full of fitting clothes, an all-round better outlook on life and a whole lot of Discovery Miles to reward his healthier lifestyle, Paul has signed up for another three months on the Vitality HealthyWeight programme. With the splendid progress he has already made to motivate him and his never-give-up attitude, his second round will no doubt be just as successful as his first.