A super slimmer from Saggart has scooped the title of Citywest’s Man of the Year 2018 after losing an incredible 10st. Since, Stephen Fleming has gone from 24st 11 to 14st 8.5lb, proving that Slimming World works just as well for men. Like many men, Stephen thought that slimming clubs were aimed at women and assumed the focus would be on ‘diet’ food and talking about people’s emotions. However, he decided to give it a try after a tough year for lots of different reasons. After walking through the doors, Stephen was pleasantly surprised to find that the support provided by the group was practical and the camaraderie and sense of competition appealed to him. He also enjoyed following Slimming World’s Food Optimising eating plan, which is based on the science of satiety and energy density, enabling him to enjoy generous portions of healthy food to satisfy his appetite, so he didn’t have to go hungry.
Stephen says: “Deep down I’d been unhappy with my weight for some time but it took me a long time to face up to it. And then when I did admit to myself that I wanted to lose weight I still didn’t want to ask for help. “I’ve realised now though that far from being weak, asking for help takes strength of character and getting support to make changes has given me a sense of confidence that is benefiting every aspect of my life. “It was nerve-wracking walking through those doors for the first time but I wasn’t the only man there and everyone was so supportive. Now I look forward to the sessions. There is lots of banter and laughter and I get some really good ideas too, from new recipe suggestions to ideas to boost my activity levels.
“I didn’t know what my mates would think about me attending Slimming World but they’ve been right behind it. Once they realised I could still have a beer they started to take an interest and when they see me eating things like steak and homemade chips, chicken curry or a roast dinner they always ask how it’s possible to eat like that and still lose weight. What really had them sitting up and paying attention though was how well I was losing weight.” As the weight came off, Stephen found he had more energy and so he was eager to use it: “As a man I always thought that physical activity would be the best way to lose weight, but when I was at my heaviest I just wasn’t fit enough to do it.
“Slimming World helped me to break it down into chunks and by starting small I’ve managed to build up my activity gradually. Stephen and his brothers have found hiking a great activity to do together and especially now because of the weight loss it is enjoyable. I can honestly say I feel like a different man since losing weight my health is so much better my doctor is delighted with my results.
Sharon Daly, who runs the Citywest Slimming World group said “I am incredibly proud of Stephen. He has done brilliantly, we’re all amazed by his transformation and is a real inspiration to the group. At home he is truly supported by his lovely wife Irina. Stephen has shown great willpower as he works in Burdocks Fish and Chip shop and his workmates are amazed. People who haven’t seen him in a while don’t recognise him. We know that many men assume slimming clubs won’t be right for them, but Stephen shows that once they come through the doors they do brilliantly. Like Stephen I would advise anyone who would like to lose weight to find the courage to take that first step.”
Another member Paddy Griffin has had amazing results and was awarded Man of the year in Citywest 7.30pm session he lost an amazing 2st 9lb. Well Done Paddy!!
The Citywest Slimming World group is held every Wednesday at Scoile Aoife across from Lidl on Fortunestown Lane. In the same location Sharon runs another group on Tuesday at 5.30pm and 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining the group can pop along or for more information they can call Sharon on 0851402870.
