Even as a child, I could never control how much I ate and would fill up on whatever I found in the kitchen. Then I had our first daughter, Jenny, when I was 19 and three more children after that. I had no time or desire to exercise so I just got bigger.
In 2007 I was diagnosed with a binge-eating disorder linked to my depression and anxiety issues. It had got to the point where I would wake up at 2am and eat a packet of biscuits. For 10 years I had my own jam- and chutney-making business and I would sell my produce at farmers markets. While there, I would also fill up on fresh bread, pasties and cakes. I reached 25st and was wearing size-32 clothes. I really hated summer, as I would be a red ball of sweat and feel constantly tired in the heat. I tried lots of diets but soon gave up, although in late 2014 I began an eating plan, which helped a bit.
In June 2017, my husband, Steve, and I were in Swansea on the day of its half marathon. I loved the vibe and felt it would be brilliant to do one day, but, then at 22st, it seemed unlikely. Around this time, I began a job as a postwoman, so I became more active and lost some weight. That September I began an online interval-style exercise plan that included doing a 1km run, which I enjoyed. In January 2018, I joined the Ampthill and Flitwick Flyers, my local club. By then I was about 17st. On the first night I tried its monthly 5km time trial and got halfway up the hill start before I burst into tears, saying,I cant do this! But other members encouraged me and we walked the course. I became hooked and started running three times a week.
I ran my first half marathon last year at the Richmond Running Festival. This year Ive done other half marathons, including Swansea, the one that first inspired me. Im fitter than Ive ever been in my life.
For me its all about finishing lines, not finishing times. I run with my club mates, but also with social groups like Run Mummy Run and Veteran Runners UK. I enjoy mixing it up while picking up tips and advice from different people I run with.
Im also going to be the Flitwick 10K race director next year, which should be an exciting challenge. My main goal is next years LondonMarathon. Im running for AsthmaUK, as Jenny has lived with it since she was four. Im sure being on the start line will be amazing, especially remembering how big I used to be.All going well, I would love to do an ultramarathon, too.
Three ways Vickie keeps herself on track:
Look back - Ive kept a pair of my size-32 shorts: Im now a size 16. On a bad day, to see how far Ive come stops me returning to my old eating habits.
Fools rush in - However far you run, its better than sitting on the sofa doing nothing. Dont expect too much too soon I built up gradually.
Cut back - Dont totally deny yourself what you enjoy eating or you will crave it even more. Instead, reduce your portions of it or make it an occasional treat you will savour it much more when you do have it.
See the original post:
How this runner ran off nearly 10 stone - Runner's World (UK)
