Real Success

Brian Semple, who lives in Chippenham in Wiltshire has lost an outstanding 15st 2lb to completely transform his life and take the title of Slimming World’s Man of the Year 2008. From being reclusive, he’s now a local celebrity who spends his spare time visiting other local Slimming World groups to inspire members!  Brian shares his breathtaking journey with us here.

“My weight increased after I left school and stopped being active - 40 years later I hadn’t stopped gaining weight. I tried faddy diets but there was no support and I ended up lonely and hungry.

“At my heaviest weight life had become a physical minefield, where even the simplest activities left me in pain or discomfort. I remember sitting down 26 times during a one mile walk because my hips and knees were aching so much.

“My size led to so many awful side effects like falling asleep at work, a suspected heart irregularity, high blood pressure and mobility problems. Because of my size I withdrew from family life and from society. I knew that without a major change I would never again be in control of my life.

“Joining a group was the result of my landlady being so enthusiastic about Slimming World. At first I was worried that it would be full of women but I was made to feel really welcome at group and I didn’t feel embarrassed at all. The supportive atmosphere is fantastic – it’s like being in a family, without the squabbles! You can arrive at group feeling down and leave feeling so positive.

“I lost 11lbs in my first week and half a stone the following week while tucking into lovely big meals. I didn’t ever find it difficult to Food Optimise and I love the ideas and motivation I get from Slimming World online.

“I eat lots of fish and love lamb shanks or turkey steaks with vegetables or large stir-fry packs and I can still enjoy eating out at Indian restaurants or takeaways. I feel confident that I will control my weight forever – I’ve learned to shop, cook and enjoy food that’s healthy and tasty.

“As I lost weight my health improved dramatically - my hip and knee pain has gone, my heart is fine and so is my blood pressure. At my last check up the GP said he was looking at a new man. 

“Nowadays I can enjoy walking without worrying how far I’ll get. Body Magic has taught me that I no longer need to be

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frightened of activity. I’m able to run for the first time in many years. Getting into a plane seat is no longer stressful. Hailing a cab is no longer an ordeal as I can get in and out of the smallest mini cab rather than picking a larger vehicle.

“It feels like I’ve been given a second chance at life. I’ve grabbed this with both hands – I now live life to the full and feel like I’ve rejoined society. There are so many plus points to losing weight but I think the greatest one is that I am healthy, energetic and living my life today and looking forward to a future rather than sitting down alone relying on memories.

"Why doesn’t everyone know about Slimming World? My first night at group was the first step back to my life. I wish I’d known earlier!”

Because Brian spends a lot of time travelling for his job, he’s been supported by many Slimming World groups throughout his weight loss journey!

Brian started his weight loss journey at Tracy Crotty’s group in Liverpool and reached his target at Linda Booker’s group in Rochester, Kent.

Massive congratulations to Brian and his fantastic achievement!

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If you'd like to reveal the real you, find your nearest warm and friendly Slimming World group, where men and women are welcome.