Name:
Penelope Peach
Age:
43
Location:
Johannesburg
How much weight have you lost on your journey so far? Please provide start and current weight.
When I was at my heaviest, I did not weigh myself. Once I had lost some weight, I had the courage to weigh myself, at that stage my weight was 84. My current weight is 69
What do you do?
Team Leader – Short Term Insurance
What else do you do? [Hobbies, non-work stuff, etc]
Hiking or running, in fact anything to do with fitness. I am interested in Calisthenics which I plan to start once lockdown is lifted.
YOU AND SLEEKGEEK
How long have you been a member of Sleekgeek?
Just under a year
How did you find Sleekgeek?
Facebook.
What is your favourite part of the Sleekgeek Community?
The support is amazing. The ideas, the advice that is shared and the motivation from other members in the community is wonderful.
YOUR TRANSFORMATION
Describe the “old you” before you made your transformation. How did you get there and what were you like?
I used to be a smoker. I decided to stop smoking in September 2012. I had in fact stopped “Cold Turkey”, my eating habits had however increased drastically and before I knew it my size had grown.
What ignited your initial motivation to change?
My back was constantly sore, my legs would get extremely sore if I walked too long, I was uncomfortable in every way possible. Clothing was a problem. I did not take many pictures of myself at the time. I had attended a work function, a picture was taken of me and I was completely shocked at my size.
What are some of the things that the new you does differently now?
I train 6 times a week which includes cardio and weight training. I have managed to train during lock down. I take time for myself when needed. I am extremely confident which is amazing. I just have a zest for life.
What are some of the things that the new you still struggles with?
I do at times worry that I will go back to where I was, I therefore, sometimes, “overdo” it with the training.
If you could give yourself 1 piece of advice to help with that struggle, what would it be?
Live life and love yourself.
Did you plateau, get stuck, or get disillusioned, or even slide backwards a bit on your journey?
Once my mind was made up to lose the weight and get healthy there was no stopping me. Once my mind was made luckily, I did not slide back. However, before I made the decision to live a healthy lifestyle, I was constantly on “diets”, which would last a few days at a time.
What is better since you got healthy?
Everything! It’s amazing what a healthy lifestyle can do for you in all aspects. I have so much energy, I feel amazing both physically and mentally. I can do push-ups and as much as I hate burpees I can do them and I can do pull ups. I am in love with a healthy lifestyle and fitness.
TRAINING
What’s your favourite form of exercise? [Running, yoga, weightlifting, etc]
This is a tough one, I love all types of training. I would say weight training is my favorite. I had, however, just started running before lockdown and thoroughly enjoyed that. But I am going with weight training.
How long have you been training and how did you get started?
I joined the gym in May 2019, this decision was made as I wanted to add fitness to my journey. I started with mostly cardio. I started weight training round August 2019, that’s when the changes in my body really started.
What does your typical workout look like?
Cardio, weights / functional training, stretch.
Favorite exercise? [Distance / pose / movement / etc]
Body pump, not really an exercise, it’s a class but amazing.
Least favorite exercise? [Distance / pose / movement / etc]
Burpees
How does exercise make you feel?
It’s the most amazing feeling, higher energy level, sense of accomplishment. It makes me feel as if I can do anything.
Do you prefer to train alone or with others? Why?
I have an amazing gym partner, we motivate each other, and both strive for the best. The gym selfies are also good.
Most embarrassing training moment?
Attempted a dance class. Let’s just say it was extremely amusing. for anyone watching me ?
Top 3 things you must have at the gym or in your gym bag?
- Chewing gum
- Hand Sanitizer (this was before covid 19)
- Towel
Your next training goal?
Calisthenics
Top 5 songs on your training playlist?
I train with a partner, and don’t listen to music. I should actually change that.
How has exercise/training/Sport Changed your life? [Made it better, etc – please be specific]
The best way possible. I’m happier, healthier, I can take on the world. Confident.
NUTRITION
What’s your favourite meal?
Pasta, I love pasta.
OK, now what’s your favourite healthy meal?
Anything with chicken
Favourite protein?
Chicken
Favourite fat?
Peanut butter
Favourite carbohydrate?
Potatoes
What’s your nutrition philosophy / approach? [If you have one]
I follow intermittent fasting and eat clean.
How many meals a day do you eat?
Usually 2, I do snack in between, healthy snacks
Do you have a cheat meal / treat strategy?
I have cheat days in moderation though.
MINDSET
Most memorable personal best achievement to date. Something you maybe never imagined you could do?
Honestly, it’s the weight loss and what I can achieve. I am amazed at what I have achieved, especially since I have started training. I mean, I can do a deadlift.
Favorite quote?
“Incredible change happens in your life when you decide to take control of what you do have power over instead of craving control over what you don’t.” – Steve Maraboli
Favourite book?
I have not read a book since becoming a Mom. (I know I need to change that). A book I did enjoy was “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
What inspires and motivates you?
My son. My everything. At the age of 4, he trains with me.
For what are you most grateful?
My son. My family. My health
What do you want to say to other community members who might be nervous or hesitant to make a start?
Make the changes and be consistent. Once you see the results, you will be motivated to continue and keep going no matter how hard it gets.
What are your top 5 tips for anyone starting on a healthy journey?
- Eat clean
- Set goals
- Be consistent. Consistency is key
- Your mindset is extremely important.
- It can be done.
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