From Tech to Target! Rugeley software developer Nathan is on a personal health journey with Slimming World, motivated by family and fitness

Hi, I’m Nathan, a software developer from Rugeley. I live with my partner Claire, who also comes along to our Wednesday night Slimming World group, together with her three boys. I also have a young daughter from a previous marriage who lives with her mum and spending time with her was one of the big reasons I wanted to feel fitter and healthier.

It all started when I saw myself in a few family photos. I barely recognised the person staring back; tired, uncomfortable, and hiding behind forced smiles. I tried to make changes on my own, cutting back on fast food and snacking less, but old habits soon crept back in, undoing any progress I made.

When Claire and I moved to Rugeley, we registered with our new GP, and during a routine health check my practitioner gently mentioned I was “slightly overweight”. Deep down, I knew it was more than that and it was time to take action. That’s when she offered me a 12-week referral to Slimming World. I accepted, though I’ll admit, quite nervously at first.

While waiting for the referral to come through, I tried to make healthier choices but without proper guidance, I was pretty lost. I remember one evening when my “main meal” was just two sea bass fillets! I did lose 5lbs, but I knew that wasn’t sustainable.

When my referral arrived, I checked out the Slimming World website and couldn’t believe what I found, so many delicious, filling recipes that didn’t feel like “diet food” at all. I printed loads of them, laminated my favourites, and made my own little recipe book!

Walking into group for the first time, I was nervous. Would I be the only man there? Seeing Slimming World posters showing both men and women really helped calm my nerves, and once I stepped through the doors, any worries disappeared. Everyone was so welcoming and I instantly felt at home.

My first month was incredible! I lost around 2lbs each week, picked up Slimmer of the Week and even Slimmer of the Month. (I did manage to drop my new book in a puddle at one point — proof that this journey really has been a bit of a rollercoaster!)

The support from Mel, our Consultant, and everyone in group made all the difference, especially on the weeks when the scales didn’t move the way I hoped. I never once thought about giving up and that’s 100% down to the encouragement and sense of belonging I found in group.

A few weeks later, Claire decided to join too, and since then we’ve supported each other every step of the way, celebrating achievements together and even sharing a few Slimmer of the Week wins! Our family favourite meals are One Pot Pasta Bolognaise, Healthy Burgers & Slimming World Chips to name just a few, We love that it never feels like a diet, we can enjoy generous portions, feel full, and never feel deprived.

Now I’m proud to say I’ve reached my target weight, having lost 3 and a half stone and I still stay to group every week as a Target member. Seeing others succeed keeps me motivated, and I love being there to show that following the plan really does work.

And now, I’m taking the next step, I’ve trained to become a Slimming World Consultant myself! I’m passionate about helping others discover the same success and confidence I’ve found. I especially want to encourage more men to take that first step and to know there’s absolutely nothing to be nervous about, and that Slimming World genuinely changes lives.

Back in November I relaunched the Rugeley Wednesday evening Lea Hall Social Club group, Sandy Lane, Rugeley, WS15 2LB, with sessions at 5.00pm and 6.30pm.

 To find out more, call me — Nathan, on 07921 625968, or simply come along.

Joining Slimming World has truly been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. If I can do it, anyone can.