Local slimmers pull on their trainers for Cancer Research UK

Before joining Slimming World, many of the slimmers did very little exercise, but after getting support to become more active, the members and Slimming World Consultants all managed to complete the five mile distance with big smiles on their faces.

The group also invited the people of the North Coast, plus their friends and family members to join in. The event saw around 150 people take part, along with other helpers who prepared a Slimming World barbecue for their return. The event aimed to raise awareness of how keeping a healthy weight can improve health, including reducing the risk of developing ten types of cancer, and raise vital funds for Cancer Research UK.

Michelle, a member who has lost 6 stone and 7lbs since joining says: “I took part in Race for Life to raise money for Cancer Research UK and support everyone out there battling the disease.

“It’s a cause very close to my heart and it was really important that I crossed that finish line, however long it took me.

“I used be so daunted just by the thought of exercise – I’d hated it since my school days, with Slimming World’s Body Magic programme I learnt that the key is to start small and find something that you enjoy doing, and I’ve found that’s the best way to keep active and lose weight at the same time as feeling absolutely fantastic. There’s no rule that says being active has to involve a gym or running shorts – walking to collect the kids from school, gardening or hitting the dance floor on a night out is enough.

“What’s important is that you do something almost every day. I definitely wouldn’t have done something like this before I found Slimming World. Since losing weight though, I’m feeling much healthier, happier and more confident – I’m so proud of myself and I know my fellow group members, friends and family are too.”

Suzi, who runs one of the local groups says her members thoroughly enjoyed taking part: “It was a fantastic event – the atmosphere was electric! Everyone was so supportive of each other, just as they are whenever our groups get together, and we saw young, old, male and female participants enter, all with a broad range of abilities and fitness levels. I’m so pleased with how much we raised for Cancer Research UK and I think the event showed people just how motivating being part of a Slimming World group can be.”